Packaging and dispensing system for sandwich food products

ABSTRACT

A sealed dispensing apparatus suitable for packaging and dispensing a single service portion of a food product. The food product is contained within an inner container cavity formed by an outer cover and a center member. Draw means are provided for transferring a force from the user to the outer cover, whereby the force peels the outer cover from the center section, thus folding the outer cover over itself as it is removed from the center section. The food product is dispensed when the inner container is opened by removing the outer cover from the center member. An optional outer container seals and holds portions of bread or other sandwich portions while the inner container is located therebetween. Box means holds the combination formed by the inner container and the outer container as well as optional condiments.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation-In-Part of copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/353,107, to Grossman, which was filed Jan. 27, 2003, entitled “PACKAGING AND DISPENSING SYSTEM FOR SANDWICH FOOD PRODUCTS,” the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to packaging and dispensing systems for food products, and more particularly relates to a single-step apparatus for storing, handling, and dispensing individual sandwich-sized servings of food products, and a method for the same.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There is currently an increasingly large consumer demand for low-cost sanitary foods which are packaged and ready-to-eat. A variety of techniques and materials have been used for packaging various types of food products in order to provide for their safe storage, shipping, and handling, as well as to provide for their easy consumption.

One common type of ready-to-eat food is the sandwich (or sandwich-type foods such as hamburgers, hotdogs, pita-sandwiches, falafel sandwiches, gyros, subs, heros, tacos, burritos, etc., which will hereinafter be collectively referred to as sandwiches). Sandwiches find widespread use in fast-food-type operations. Additionally, sandwiches are commonly used for school lunches and other packaged meals (e.g., in airline meals, and in vending machines).

The bread in sandwiches usually absorbs moisture from the sandwiches' fillings. This moisture adversely affects the sandwiches' taste and texture. Accordingly, when moist fillings such as egg salad or tuna salad are used, the sandwiches must be consumed within a relatively short period of time, which is inconvenient and uneconomical. Sandwiches which are intended to last for several hours or more are generally made with relatively dry fillings, such as turkey, salami, or ham.

In the airline industry, it is typical that from the time the food is prepared by a caterer until the time the food is served to passengers aboard an aircraft, four or more hours will have passed. Because of this delay, airlines typically serve sandwiches which have substantially dry fillings, and avoid sandwiches which contain moist fillings such as tuna salad or egg salad.

A large number of moist and/or sticky products are commonly used as sandwich fillers. Moist and/or sticky sandwich fillers include egg salad, tuna salad, chicken salad, and peanut butter and/or jelly, as well as various condiments such as mustard, ketchup, and tomatoes. Sandwiches made using many of these products require refrigeration or special handling to insure that they do not spoil. However, refrigeration at times may be inconvenient or unavailable. Moreover, refrigeration adversely affects the taste of the bread and therefore may not be desirable or advantageous.

Although there are a number of prior art methods to deal with the aforementioned problems associated with sandwiches containing moist and/or sticky fillings, none of them provide for an easily-dispensed, sanitary, long-lasting, fresh-tasting sandwich.

One common prior art method requires that the sandwich filler be packed separately from the bread. Although this method does keep the bread from absorbing moisture from the filling, it requires that the user make the sandwich after unpacking the bread and unpacking the filler, which is inconvenient. Additionally, the extra handling involved in making the sandwich increases the likelihood that the sandwich will become contaminated, and requires the use of utensils which may be unavailable.

Another method uses an array of chemicals to seal meat that is used in sandwiches and to inhibit bacterial growth. The completed sandwiches are then vacuum-sealed. However, because chemicals are added to the food product, the flavor and/or consistency of the food is altered. Additionally, this system does not provide for individual selection of various combinations of breads and fillers.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,653,685 to Leary, et al., entitled “Dual compartment sandwich package,” discloses a dual compartment sandwich package fabricated of foamed polystyrene or the like and adapted to retain therein in appealing and acceptable form a sandwich including a hot meal portion, such as a hamburger, and a cool trimmings portion, such as lettuce and tomato. The package comprises two compartments, one for containing the hot meal portion and the other to retain the cool trimmings portion. While this product maintains the sandwich components in an acceptable condition for a longer period of time than a fully assembled sandwich would be, it requires a larger container (which is about twice as large as a single-compartment container) and additional materials, and also requires the user to assemble the sandwich before use, thus adding inconvenience and increasing the likelihood of contamination during assembly.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,312,641 to Castillo, entitled “Non-spread peanut butter slices and method of making,” discloses a non-spread, sliced peanut butter product containing chunky peanut butter, powdered egg white, flour, and an emulsifier. The ingredients are mixed together, and pressed or extruded into sheets which are about the length and width of a bread slice and about 0.2 inches thick. However, this product has a different composition and texture from conventional peanut butter and requires that the user handle the product when applying it to the bread.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,165,521 to Mayfield, entitled “Food products utilizing edible films and method of making and packaging same,” discloses an edible material thin film which is applied to at least one side of a sticky or moist food product. The food product with edible material thereon may be used to make sandwiches, or stored without additional protection. However, because this material is added to the food product, it alters the flavor and/or consistency of the food and is therefore not desirable. Additionally, the invention does not provide for a sanitary holding means before the food product is applied to a desired object, such as a slice of bread. Moreover, the invention does not provide for the inclusion of gravy or other liquids with the food product.

Thus, there is a need for an easy-to-use packaged food dispenser which dispenses sandwiches that are fresh, sanitary and that have bread that is not soggy. Additionally, there is a need for a dispenser that can dispense packaged foods which does not require the use of utensils to remove the food from the package and apply it to the desired object. Furthermore, there is a need for a dispenser which can dispense packaged foods (such as sandwiches) from vending machines (and refrigerators and the like) while extending the life of the food. Moreover, there is a need for a package and dispenser which are ideally suited for fast-food meals, airline meals, and meals for armed-forces personnel.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a packaging and dispensing system that overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art discussed above. The packaging and dispensing system comprises a sealed dispenser which keeps the food (hereinafter filler, sandwich contents or simply contents) contained therein fresh and which provides for easy application of the filler (without utensils) to a desired surface (such as slices of bread or a plate), while minimizing the possibility of contamination. The present invention is ideally suited for the packaging and dispensing of sandwich fillers, sandwiches, and the like. The sealed dispenser can be used alone or can be used with other packaging means (e.g., an outer container, an outer box means, etc.).

While the present invention can be used with many products (e.g., deli meats, hotdogs, hamburgers, corn-on-the-cob, etc.), it is particularly suited for packaging of single-serve portions of moist and/or sticky foods (such as tuna salad or egg salad) within sandwiches. Additionally, the present invention, or individual units of it, may be used alone or in combination with each other to dispense combinations of individual single-service portions. Additionally, the present invention, when constructed utilizing suitable materials, can be used to store foods when cooling and/or warming them, during other phases of preparing and handling them, and while serving them. For example, a hotdog vendor can use the present invention to cook and dispense hotdogs (with or without the buns) without coming into contact with, and possibly contaminating, the hotdog filler and/or bun.

The current invention comprises an inner container and an optional outer container. The inner container contains the filler and comprises a center member, a holding means, an outer cover, and one or more draw members. The outer cover has an inner periphery and an outer periphery as well as one or more ends (e.g., a first end and a second end). The outer periphery of the outer cover is releasably attached to the center member so that the combination formed by the outer cover and the center member forms a cavity for holding the filler. The draw member(s) is/are attached to the end(s) of the outer cover. One or more optional tab members, suitable for grasping, are attached to the draw member. The draw member transfers a force from the tab member to the outer cover or from the user to the outer cover, which force peels the outer cover from the center section, thus folding the outer cover over itself as it is removed from the center section.

In alternative embodiments, the outer cover comprises at least two sheets. For example, the outer cover can be comprised of a first sheet and a second sheet. The first sheet and the second sheet are releasably attached to each other, as described infra, so as to form a continuous sheet which is shaped and sized similarly to the single outer cover as discussed supra. The first sheet and the second sheet have an inner and an outer periphery. An attachment means sealably secures parts of the outer peripheries of both the first sheet and the second sheet to the center member so that the combination formed by the first sheet, the second sheet, and the center member forms a cavity for holding the filler. A first draw member is attached to the first end of the first sheet and a second draw member is attached to the second end of the second sheet (wherein the first end of the first sheet and the second end of the second sheet when attached to each other correspond to the corresponding parts of the outer cover). The first draw member operates to transfer a force from the user to the first sheet, which force peels the first sheet from the center member (and optionally separates the first sheet from the second sheet). Likewise, a second draw member is attached to the second sheet and acts to transfer a force from the user to the second sheet, which force peels the second sheet from the center member.

In yet other alternative embodiments, the center member (or parts thereof) is formed integrally with the outer cover from the same sheet of material. The center member is attached to the outer cover via one or more weakened lines. A holding means is attached to the center member. The outer cover is folded over itself so as to form a cavity for holding the filler. The center member is then attached to itself and/or to the outer cover so as to seal the cavity. In use, the outer cover is removed from the center member (at the weakened lines). Alternatively, the outer cover can comprise two or more portions. The first sheet and the second sheet are releasably attached to each other as described infra, so as to form a continuous portion which is shaped and sized similarly to the single outer cover as discussed supra. The first sheet and the second sheet have an inner and an outer periphery. The center member is releasably attached to either or both the first sheet and the second sheet so that the combination formed by the first sheet, the second sheet, and the center member forms a cavity for holding the filler. A first draw member is attached to the first sheet and a second draw member is attached to the second sheet. The first draw member operates to transfer a force from the user to the first sheet, which force peels the first sheet from the center member. Likewise, the second draw member is attached to the second sheet and acts to transfer a force from the user to the second sheet, which force peels the second sheet from the center member, thus exposing the filler.

The optional outer container is suitable for holding the combination that is formed by the slices of bread or other sandwich portions (hereinafter, the sandwich halves), and the inner container, which is located between the sandwich halves. Without limitation, the outer container may be constructed from a flexible material (e.g., paper, foil, plastic, laminates, suitable polymers, or the like), a rigid or substantially rigid material (e.g., plastic, cardboard, foam, rigid polymers, etc.), or a combination of these or similar materials.

Either or both the outer container and the inner container can be held within an outer box means. The outer box means can also hold additional items such as a drink container, a snack container (e.g., one containing crackers or the like), and other desired items as are common in prepackaged meals such as Lunchables™ by Oscar Meyer Foods, Madison, Wis., Giggles to Go™ Sandwich Lunch Kit by Venetian Bakery™, Northlake, Ill., or airline meals as are commonly served aboard commercial flights. Without limitation, the box means may be constructed from a non-rigid material (e.g., paper, foil-backed paper, plastic, solid polymers, or the like), a rigid or substantially rigid material (e.g., plastic, cardboard, foam, solid polymers etc.), or a combination of these or similar materials.

In use, one or more inner containers are placed between the sandwich portions (e.g., slices of bread, the sandwich halves, etc.). The inner containers are then opened by removing the outer cover from the center member as discussed supra, thereby opening the cavity. The complete sandwich is then removed from the center member.

Alternatively, one or more inner containers are placed in proximity to a desired object (e.g., a plate or a single slice of bread). The inner container(s) is (are) then opened by peeling the outer cover from the center member thereby releasing the filler(s) onto the desired object.

It is further contemplated that the outer cover may be partially peeled away from the center member, thus partially exposing the filler contained within the cavity. The filler is then removed or eaten directly from the partially-opened cavity.

One method of this invention comprises the packaging of a sandwich filler within the inner container and sealing the outer cover of the inner container. The inner container is then optionally placed between two sandwich portions for final assembly of both the sandwich portions and the filler portion into a single sandwich by the consumer, and for consumption by the consumer.

Another method of this invention comprises the packaging of a sandwich filler within the inner container and securing the inner container within the outer container for final assembly for use by the consumer.

The inner container can be placed within the optional outer container so that the combination formed by the sandwich slices and the inner container is held in a desired position for storage, shipping and/or dispensing.

The inner container is ideally suited for dispensing the filling without the need for utensils, while minimizing the possibility of contaminating the sandwich.

It is an object of the current invention to provide for a sealed package which can be dispensed from vending machines and the like.

It is a further object of the current invention to provide for a sealed package which will keep a sandwich and its filling fresh for a longer period of time than if the sandwich and its filling were packaged with conventional methods.

It is a further object of the current invention to provide for a sealed package for a filling or other food product without the need for refrigeration.

It is a further object of the current invention to provide for a sealed package for a filling which can be easily opened and consumed.

It is a further object of the current invention to provide for a sealed individual serving of a filling. The individual serving which is contained within the inner container is then easily combined with two slices of bread to form a sandwich. The sandwich may be contained within an optional outer container.

It is a further object of the current invention to provide for the ability to keep the filler separate from the bread, thus preserving both the bread and the filler.

It is a further object of the current invention to provide for a modular sealed dispenser system wherein a plurality of inner containers can be stacked upon, and used with, other like inner containers which hold various fillers.

It is a further object of the current invention to provide for a sealed inner container with an outer cover which substantially cleans itself upon removal of the outer cover from the center member.

It is a further object of the current invention to provide for a package means for sandwich fillers in which the package is constructed from inexpensive materials and may be manufactured in large quantities at low cost, is easy to open and use, and permits the efficient utilization of the food product contained within the package.

Additional objects and advantages of the current invention will be set forth in the description which follows.

There is thus provided in accordance with the present invention an apparatus for packaging a sandwich filler comprising a center member adapted to provide space for the sandwich filler, an outer cover having a first end and a second end, the outer cover releasably attached to the center member so as to form a cavity for the sandwich filler, and a removal means attached to the first end and the second end of the outer cover such that pulling the removal means away from the center member causes the separation and removal of the outer cover from the center member, thereby exposing the sandwich filler contained therein.

There is also provided in accordance with the present invention an apparatus for packaging a sandwich filler comprising an outer cover having a first end and a second end, the outer cover folded over the sandwich filler forming a first portion and a second portion, the first portion peripherally sealed to the second portion so as to form a cavity for the sandwich filler and removal means attached to the first end and the second end of the outer cover such that pulling the removal means causes tearing of the first portion from the second portion, thereby causing the removal of a portion of the outer cover, thereby exposing the sandwich filler contained therein.

There is further provided in accordance with the present invention an apparatus for packaging a sandwich filler comprising a first center member and a second center member arranged so as to provide space for the sandwich filler, a first outer cover and a second outer cover, the outer periphery of the first outer cover releasably attached to a first side of the first center member and the second center member, the outer periphery of the second outer cover releasably attached to a second side of the first center member and the second center member so as to form a cavity for the sandwich filler, a removal means attached to the first outer cover and the second outer cover such that pulling the removal means causes the separation and removal of the first outer cover and the second outer cover from the first center member and the second center member, thereby exposing the sandwich filler contained therein, a first holding means attached to the first center member, and a second holding means attached to the second center member, wherein once the first outer cover and the second outer cover are removed, pulling the first holding means and the second holding means in opposite directions causes the first center member to separate from the second center member.

There is also provided in accordance with the present invention an apparatus for packaging a filler comprising a center member adapted to provide space for the filler, an outer cover having a first end and a second end, the outer cover releasably attached to the center member so as to form a cavity for the filler, and a removal means attached to the first end and the second end of the outer cover such that pulling the removal means away from the center member causes the separation and removal of the outer cover from the center member, thereby exposing the filler contained therein.

There is also provided in accordance with the present invention an apparatus for packaging a sandwich filler, the apparatus including a center member adapted to provide space for said sandwich filler, an outer cover having a first end and a second end, said outer cover releasably attached to said center member so as to form a cavity for said sandwich filler, draw means attached to said first end and said second end of said outer cover, whereby a pulling force applied to said draw means is transferred to said first end and said second end of said outer cover, thereby peeling said outer cover from said center member and starting from said first end and said second end such that said outer cover is slideably peeled back over itself thus causing the separation and removal of said outer cover from said center member and exposing said sandwich filler contained therein, and an outer container for forming at least part of one or more cavities. At least part of the outer container may include a flexible material and may be formed from one or more of a clamshell type container, a box type container, and a substantially tubular shaped container.

According to the present invention, the draw means may include one or more draw members having a first end, a second end and a first tab, said second end being attached to at least one of said first and second ends of said outer cover.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, at least a second layer may be folded about itself so as to define at least a part of a cavity for containing a sandwich item.

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide an outer cover having first and second ends and overlapping upon itself about the filler to form another cavity to contain another filler and at least one loop (which can be open or closed and/or may be flattened) between the first and second ends, thereby structurally forming a four-layer covering about the another filler, the at least one loop being situated on two opposite sides of the another filler. One or more weakened lines may be associated with at least one of the outer cover and the outer container to aid the separation and/or folding of the a corresponding outer cover and/or outer container.

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide an apparatus for packaging a filler, the apparatus including a center member structured and arranged to define at least part of a cavity to receive the filler, an outer cover having first and second ends and being releasably attached to the center member to define another part of the cavity for the filler, such that when at least one of the first and second ends of the outer cover is pulled, the outer cover retracts from a corresponding side of the center member in the substantially same direction as the pulling force, exposing the contained filler. Pulling the first and second ends of the outer cover (e.g., synchronously) causes the outer cover to retract from opposite sides of said center member at the same time thus exposing the contained filler. The apparatus may also include one or more of first and second members for transmitting a force to retract the outer cover, said first and second members being associated with at least one of the first and second ends of said outer cover. An optional tab suitable for grasping may be attached to (or formed integrally with) the one or more of the first and second members.

It is another aspect of the present invention to provide one or more outer containers for forming at least part of one or more cavities for housing a filler and the second member. According to the present invention, another outer cover may be included. The another outer cover being located above or below the outer cover and defining at least part of another part of another cavity for another filler.

It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide an outer container comprising at least one of a clamshell type container, a box type container, a triangular shaped container, and a substantially tubular shaped container.

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide an apparatus for packaging a filler, the apparatus including an outer cover having first and second ends and overlapping upon itself about the filler to form a cavity to contain the filler and at least one loop between the first and second ends, thereby structurally forming a four-layer covering about the filler, the at least one loop being situated on at least one of two opposite sides of the filler, the outer cover extending so including at least one draw member located adjacent to the first and second ends of the outer cover such that when the at least one draw members is pulled, the outer cover retracts from both opposite sides of the filler at the same time, exposing the contained filler in a single step.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a top-view illustration of a single-piece outer cover and attached draw members according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a top-view illustration of an alternative single-piece outer cover and attached draw members according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a side-view illustration of a first embodiment of the inner container of the present invention having a single outer cover;

FIG. 4 is a top-planar-view illustration of the first embodiment of the inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 3, having a single outer cover and a filler;

FIG. 5 is a side-view illustration of a second embodiment of the inner container of the present invention, having a two-piece outer cover;

FIG. 6A is a side-view illustration of a third embodiment of the inner container of the present invention having a single outer cover;

FIG. 6B is a top-planar-view illustration of a third embodiment of the inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 6A, having a single outer cover and a filler;

FIG. 7 is a perspective-view illustration of a fourth embodiment of the inner container of the present invention with a partial cutaway of the outer cover;

FIG. 8A is a perspective-view illustration of a fifth embodiment of the inner container of the present invention having a two-part center member and using a two-part outer cover;

FIG. 8B is a perspective-view illustration of the fifth embodiment of the inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 8A, with the first outer cover and attached draw member removed;

FIG. 8C is a perspective-view illustration of the fifth embodiment of the inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 8A, with the outer covers removed and the center sections separated from each other;

FIG. 9 is a top-view illustration of the single-piece outer cover and attached draw members according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a top-planar-view illustration of a sixth embodiment of the inner container of the present invention having a composite center member and a single-piece outer cover;

FIG. 11A is a sectional-view illustration of the sixth embodiment of the present invention taken along line 11A-11A of FIG. 10;

FIG. 11B is a sectional-view illustration of the sixth embodiment of the present invention taken along line 11B-11B of FIG. 10;

FIG. 11C is a sectional-view illustration of the sixth embodiment of the present invention as shown in FIG. 11B, including an optional blocking member;

FIG. 12 is a perspective-view illustration of a seventh embodiment of the inner container of the present invention having a composite center member and a single-piece outer cover;

FIG. 13 is a perspective-view illustration the inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 12, as the outer cover is separated from the center member;

FIG. 14A is a perspective-view illustration the inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 12, having a full-width draw member;

FIG. 14B is a perspective-view illustration of the inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 14A, having a holding means which is formed integrally with the outer cover;

FIG. 15 is a perspective-view illustration of an eighth embodiment of the inner container of the present invention using a composite center member;

FIG. 16 is a sectional-view illustration of the eighth embodiment of the inner container as shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a perspective-view illustration of a ninth embodiment of the inner container of the present invention with a partial cutaway of the outer cover and the first draw member;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional-view illustration of the ninth embodiment of the inner container of the present invention, taken along line 18-18 of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a side-view illustration of the ninth embodiment of the inner container as shown in FIG. 18 inserted within a hotdog bun, with the outer cover opened and removed;

FIG. 20 is a side-view illustration of the ninth embodiment of the inner container as shown in FIG. 19 as it is removed by rotating the inner container;

FIG. 21A is an exploded top-planar-view illustration of a first embodiment of an outer container, with the inner container as shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 21B is an exploded bottom-planar-view illustration of the outer container with the inner container as shown in FIG. 21A;

FIG. 22 is a perspective-view illustration of an opened outer container with the attached inner container of FIG. 21A;

FIG. 23 is a perspective-view illustration of an opened outer container with the attached inner container of FIG. 22 and sandwich halves;

FIG. 24A is a perspective-view illustration of a second alternative embodiment of an outer container incorporating a box-type container;

FIG. 24B is a perspective-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 24A with the removable flap peeled back to expose a common tab and minor opening;

FIG. 24C is a perspective-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 24B with the first and second flaps opened to expose the completed sandwich contained within;

FIG. 24D is a perspective-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 24A before the front panel is closed;

FIG. 25A is a side-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 24A with the enclosed inner container and sandwich halves;

FIG. 25B is a front-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 24A with the enclosed inner container and sandwich halves;

FIG. 25C is a top-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 24A with the enclosed inner container;

FIG. 26A is a side-view illustration of a third alternative embodiment of an outer container incorporating a clamshell-type container;

FIG. 26B is a side-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 26A with the cover portion opened and including an attached inner container and sandwich halves;

FIG. 26C is a side-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 26A with the cover portion opened showing the attachment of the inner container;

FIG. 26D is a front-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 26A;

FIG. 26E a side-view illustration of an alternative embodiment of the outer container of FIG. 26A with the cover portion opened and showing the hingedly attached inner container;

FIG. 27A is an exploded side-view illustration of an alternative embodiment of the outer container of FIG. 26A with the cover portion opened and including optional cavity seals;

FIG. 27B is a top-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 27A seen with pull transmitting members which are arranged diagonally across the cavities;

FIG. 27C is a side-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 27A seen with a single pull transmitting member and a single-piece cavity seal;

FIG. 28A is a side-view illustration of a fourth alternative embodiment of an outer container incorporating a clamshell-type box in the closed position;

FIG. 28B is a side-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 28A with the cover portion opened;

FIG. 28C is a front-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 28A with the cover portion in the closed position;

FIG. 28D is a side-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 28A with the front wall of the tray portion pulled back to expose the common tab;

FIG. 29A is a partial-cutaway side-view illustration of the inner container and outer container of the present invention, with sandwich halves inserted;

FIG. 29B is a partial-cutaway side-view illustration of an inner container and outer container of FIG. 29A, as the inner container is opened and the outer cover removed;

FIG. 29C is a partial-cutaway side-view illustration of the inner container and attached outer container of FIG. 29B, with the outer cover removed;

FIG. 29D is a partial-cutaway side-view illustration of the inner container and attached outer container of FIG. 29C, as the sandwich halves and filler are pulled from the opened inner container;

FIG. 30A is a perspective-view illustration of a fifth alternative embodiment of an outer container incorporating a tubular body;

FIG. 30B is a perspective-view illustration of the fifth alternative embodiment of the outer container as seen in FIG. 30A, incorporating a tubular body and a cover portion;

FIG. 31 is a cutaway side-view illustration taken along line 31-31 of the tubular outer container shown in FIG. 30A;

FIG. 32 is a perspective-view illustration of the inner container of FIG. 7 contained within a flexible outer container;

FIG. 33 is an exploded perspective-view illustration of the inner container and flexible outer container of FIG. 32 and an outer box means with the cover peeled back;

FIG. 34A is a side-view illustration of the outer box means and inner container and flexible outer container of FIG. 33, with the outer box means' cover partially opened;

FIG. 34B is a side-view illustration of the box means of FIG. 34A with the cover opened, and the user pulling on the draw members of the inner container; and

FIG. 34C is a side-view illustration of the box means of FIG. 34B with the cover opened and the outer cover removed and discarded, as the completed sandwich is being removed from the inner container;

FIG. 35A is a perspective-view illustration of a sixth alternative embodiment of an outer container incorporating a box-type container;

FIG. 35B is a rear perspective-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 35A.

FIG. 36A is a side view illustration of an inner container of the present invention including pockets for dispensing condiments;

FIG. 36B is a top view illustration of an inner container of the present invention including pockets for dispensing condiments shown in FIG. 36A;

FIG. 36C is a partial cutaway side view illustration of an inner container of the present invention including pockets for dispensing condiments shown in FIGS. 36A-B;

FIG. 37A is a side view illustration of an outer container including inner containers;

FIG. 37B is a partially cutaway front view illustration of the outer container including the inner containers shown in FIG. 37A;

FIG. 37C is a cutaway illustration of the outer container including inner containers shown in FIG. 37A taken along line 37C;

FIG. 38A is a front view illustration of a tri-shaped outer container having two sandwich fillers for dispensing two cut halves of a sandwich;

FIG. 38B is a top cross sectional view illustration of the tri-shaped outer container of FIG. 38A;

FIG. 38C is a front three quarters perspective view illustration of the tri-shaped outer container of FIG. 38A;

FIG. 39 is a top view illustration of a composite outer cover according to the present invention;

FIG. 40A is a cutaway side view illustration of the composite outer cover shown in FIG. 39 taken along line 40;

FIG. 40B is a cutaway side view illustration of the composite outer cover shown in FIG. 40A after opening;

FIG. 41 is a top view illustration of a sandwich filler contained within a portion of an opened outer cover;

FIG. 42 is a cutaway side view illustration of the composite outer cover shown in FIG. 39 taken along line 42;

FIG. 43A is a cutaway side view illustration of another composite outer cover taken along line 40 of FIG. 39;

FIG. 43B is a cutaway side view illustration of the composite over cover shown in FIG. 43A with the first layer separated from a part of the second layer;

FIG. 44 is a cutaway side view illustration of another outer cover which is similar to the outer cover shown in FIG. 39 and taken along line 42;

FIG. 45A is a partially cutaway top view illustration of a composite outer cover formed into an inner container for dispensing a filler;

FIG. 45B is a top view illustration the inner container shown in FIG. 45A;

FIG. 45C is a top view illustration of the inner container shown in FIG. 45A with the extensions and the corresponding parts of the outer cover removed from the side portions;

FIG. 46 is a side view illustration of the package shown in FIG. 45A;

FIG. 47A is a side view illustration of a composite inner/outer container is shown in FIG. 47A;

FIG. 47B is a side view illustration of the composite inner/outer container shown in FIG. 47A folded about a filler;

FIG. 47C is a detailed partial side view illustration of a sealed inner container formed within the tubular part of FIGS. 47A-B;

FIG. 47AA is a detailed partial side view illustration of an alternative tubular part having integrally formed extension parts;

FIG. 47D is a detailed partial side view illustration of another sealed inner container formed within the tubular part of FIGS. 47A-47B;

FIG. 47E is a top view illustration of the composite inner/outer container shown in FIG. 47A folded about a filler;

FIGS. 47F and 47G illustrate a composite inner/outer container which is similar to the inner/outer container of FIG. 47E;

FIG. 47H is a front view illustration of the composite inner/outer container shown in FIG. 47E is shown in 47 folded about a filler;

FIG. 47I is a top view illustration of a holding means according to the present invention;

FIG. 48A is a side view illustration of a package having a composite inner/outer container;

FIG. 48B is a side view illustration of the package having a composite inner/outer container and rear holding means;

FIGS. 48C-48D are side view illustrations of the composite inner/outer container shown in FIG. 48B as it is being opened is shown in FIGS. 48C-D;

FIG. 49 is a cutaway side-view illustration of the composite inner/outer container 4800 shown in FIG. 48A within the box-type outer container shown in FIG. 24A;

FIG. 50A is a partial perspective view of an outer cover including weakened areas and side extensions;

FIG. 50B is a partial perspective view of the outer cover shown in FIG. 50A is shown in FIG. 50B;

FIG. 51A is a container including two pockets for dispensing a food product;

FIG. 51B is a top view illustration of the first part of the container shown in FIG. 51A taken along lines 51B; and

FIG. 51C is a side view illustration of the first part of the container shown in FIG. 51A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following terms and definitions apply throughout this document.

The term “adhesive” is used to denote all suitable types of adhesives, including but not limited to pressure-sensitive adhesives, transfer adhesives, adhesive coatings, thermal adhesives, cohesives, epoxies, and glues, as well as thermal bonding, pressure bonding and other suitable methods of bonding the desired materials together.

The term “weakened line” is used to denote perforated, scored or other types of lines which are sufficiently weakened so that a desired force will cause separation of the weakened line. Additionally, tear strips, reinforcing cords or other suitable objects can be placed in close proximity to the weakened line so as to enhance the separation of the weakened line.

The terms “sandwich halves” and “sandwich portions” are used to denote bread slices, pita slices, cut rolls, or other objects which are placed on either side of the inner container and onto which the filler is deposited. Moreover, when using pita slices, the inner container may be placed within the pita slices or between them.

The terms “draw means” and “removal means” refer to draw members and/or other force-transmitting members for the removal of the outer cover. For instance, a draw member may be replaced by a rigid element which extends in any way, as desired, and which transmits a force from a desired object to the outer cover. The terms “filler,” “sandwich contents” or “contents” refer to a sandwich filler (e.g., a hamburger, hotdog, deli slices, peanut butter, tuna, etc. as has been described elsewhere in this document) or other desired object which is placed within the dispenser's cavity and dispensed by the inner container.

The term “holding means” refers to holding members or other means which are attached to either or both the center member and the outer cover. The primary function of the holding means is to keep the outer cover and the inner container in position during removal of the outer cover from the inner container. Throughout this document, in embodiments where the holding member(s) or holding means is attached only to the center member, it will be assumed that the holding members or holding means is attached to the outer cover.

The term “tab member” refers to a tab or handle designed to facilitate grasping and pulling the draw member (or other draw means). The tab member can be made integrally with the draw member from the same material as the draw member, or can be made of another type of material, such as a rigid plastic or cardboard. The tab member may be embossed, shaped, colored, or otherwise formed so as to indicate its proper use and so as to enable the user easily to grasp and pull it. Tab members include the first and second tab as well as the jointly formed common tab, as will be discussed infra.

In a majority of the embodiments, the adjacent interior portions of the outer cover are either fixably or releasably attached to each other except at those points where the center member intervenes between them, at which points the outer cover is either fixably or releasably attached to the center member. Throughout this document, in embodiments that employ a center member which is placed between and is releasably attached to the first portion and the second portions of the outer cover, it will be assumed that the first portion is attached to the second portion of the outer cover. The one or more center members are placed at selected locations or continuously along the outer perimeter of the outer cover. Moreover, in some embodiments the center member can, at select locations, be attached to the exterior surface of the outer cover.

Note that throughout the present invention, interchangeability of components is contemplated and the corresponding terms throughout this specification including the claims may therefore be substituted for one another as desired as would be reasonable to one skilled in the art. For example, a first sheet and a second sheet may be substituted for the outer cover, in which case an attachment means must be included.

The present invention is applicable to food-storage dispensers and the like, and is characterized by an inner container which is comprised of a center member, one or more outer covers, at least one draw member, and a holding means. It will be appreciated that the filler is completely contained within the inner container without the need for additional packaging.

It will be further appreciated by one skilled in the art that the various embodiments of the present invention may be constructed using different materials, such as paper, cardboard, plastic, foam, aluminum foil, paperboards, laminates, other types of solid polymers, and other materials of suitable construction.

A top-view illustration of a single-piece outer cover and attached draw members according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 1. The outer cover 30 has an interior side 32 and an exterior side (not shown), an inner periphery 36 and an outer periphery 38, opposed first and second ends 40 and 42 respectively, mid fold 44, and folds 46 and 48. The inner periphery and outer periphery are separated by line 37. A removal means comprises two draw members, a first draw member 50, and a second draw member 52, both of which are attached to the outer cover 30. The first draw member 50 includes a first end 54, an opposed second end 56, and an optional first tab 26 which is located adjacent to the first end 54. The second end is attached to the first end of the outer cover adjacent to fold 46. Likewise, the second draw member includes a first end 58, an opposed second end 60, and an optional second tab 28 which is located adjacent to the first end, the second end being attached to the second end of the outer cover adjacent to fold 48. Ideally, the first draw member and the second draw member are constructed from the same sheet of material as the outer cover. But, without limitation, it is contemplated that the first draw member as well as the second draw member may be made separately from the outer cover and attached thereto. Although the first draw member and/or the second draw member may be constructed from a rigid or semi-rigid material, it is preferred that the first draw member and the second draw member be constructed from a flexible material which is sufficiently strong so that it is not damaged during storage or use. The outer cover 30 may be constructed from any flexible material (e.g., Mylar, polyester, other polymers, etc.) as desired, provided that it has the desired characteristics. Those portions of the outer cover which lie between the mid fold and the first end of the outer cover are known as the first portion 41, while those portions of the outer cover which lie between the mid fold and the second end of the outer cover are to be known as the second portion 43.

A top-view illustration of an alternative single-piece outer cover and attached draw members according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 2. This embodiment is essentially similar to the embodiment shown and described in FIG. 1 and the accompanying text, a difference being that both the first draw member 62 and the second draw member 64 are laterally substantially the same width as that of the outer cover 30 at its distal ends 40 and 42. Draw members which are substantially the same width as that of the outer cover at its distal ends are also known as full-width draw members throughout this document. The first draw member includes a first end 66, an opposed second end 68, and a first tab 65 which is located adjacent to the first end. The second end is attached to the first end of the outer cover adjacent to fold 46. Likewise, the second draw member includes a first end 70, an opposed second end 72, and a second tab 63 which is located adjacent to the first end, the second end being attached to the second end of the outer cover adjacent to fold 48.

When an inner container is placed between the sandwich halves, full-width draw members prevent the lateral edges of either or both the outer cover and the draw members from dragging on the adjacent sandwich half during removal of the outer cover from the center member. This is the preferred embodiment when using soft breads for the sandwich halves and should be used when the lateral edges of the outer cover stick to the sandwich halves.

A side-view illustration of a first embodiment of the inner container of the present invention having a single outer cover is shown in FIG. 3. The inner container, generally referenced 74, is constructed so as to hold a desired quantity of filler 101. The inner container is placed between two optional sandwich halves 103A and 103B so that a complete and ready-to-eat sandwich is formed after the inner container is opened (by removing the outer cover 76) and the center member and the sandwich halves (with the filling therebetween) are separated from each other.

The inner container comprises the outer cover 76, a center member 78, the first draw member 80, the second draw member 82, and a holding member 84. The outer cover is folded back over itself in the area that is adjacent to, and located along, the mid fold 86, so that the interior side 88 of the outer cover faces itself and so that the outer periphery of the outer cover is substantially aligned with and superposes itself. Alternatively, the outer periphery of the outer cover can be offset such that it does not have to be substantially aligned with itself (this will be desirable if using asymmetrically shaped center members). The outer periphery of the outer cover is releasably attached to the center member using a suitable sealing process (described infra) so as to form a cavity for holding the filler. Suitable sealing methods include thermal, pressure, adhesive, pressure-sensitive-adhesive, and other suitable methods as are known in the art, or combinations thereof, as will be discussed infra.

The outer cover is shaped and sized such that the outer periphery of the outer cover covers that area of the center member to which the outer cover is to be attached. In alternative embodiments, the outer cover is shaped and sized such that its outer periphery extends beyond the outer periphery of the center member.

The center member has a height HHH which is preferably sufficient so that the outer cover preferably does not bulge substantially due to the thickness of the filler contained within the inner container.

The first draw member and the second draw member are used as a means for removing the outer cover from the center member. The first end 90 of the first draw member extends far enough beyond the edge of the combination formed by the center member and the outer cover so that the first end is easily accessible to a user, and is provided with an optional first tab 92. The first tab should be shaped and sized such that a user may easily grasp the tab when using the invention. The second end 98 of the first draw member is attached to the first end 106 of the outer cover adjacent to fold 112.

The first end 94 of the second draw member extends beyond the perimeter of the outer cover so that it is easily accessible to a user, and is provided with an optional second tab 96. The second tab should be shaped and sized similarly to the first tab such that a user may easily grasp the tab when using the invention. The second end 108 of the second draw member is attached to the second end 110 of the outer cover adjacent to fold 114.

If desired, the lengths of the first draw member and the second draw member can differ so that the first end of the first draw member and the first end of the second draw member are offset (as shown).

In alternative embodiments, the first draw member and the second draw member are formed from a single sheet of material which is folded at a location that is adjacent to the first end of the first draw member so as to form a first draw member and a second draw member.

In yet other alternative embodiments, the first draw member and the second draw member are joined together in the area adjacent to the first end of the first draw member and the first end of the second draw member. Furthermore, if desired, the first tab and the second tab may be attached to each other or combined so as to form a single pull tab which is suitable for grasping. Such a pull tab provides an easy way for a user to grab and remove the outer cover thus exposing the sandwich contents to the bread.

A means for holding the inner container is provided. The means for holding the inner container should be attached to the center member (or, in alternative embodiments, can be releasably attached to the outer cover itself) and should be capable of maintaining a force which approximately is equal to the force exerted by the draw members when the inner container is being opened. In alternative embodiments, suitable holding means include straps, tabs, or other protrusions which are attached to, or formed integrally with, the center member, and which maintain the desired position of the center member during use of the invention (e.g., during filling and/or dispensing). Other suitable holding means include indentations (e.g., perforations, knurling, etc.) in (or attached to) the center member which would enable the user to grasp the center member. In yet other alternative embodiments, the holding means can comprise an adhesive which is attached to the inner container.

The holding means holds the inner container in a desired position when the outer cover is removed from the center member of the inner container (thus opening the inner container). Additionally, the holding means can be used for storing (e.g., hanging on a refrigerator shelf), holding (e.g., when taking the inner container out of a refrigerator etc.), and transporting the inner container. Furthermore, the means for holding can be used to hold those parts of the inner container which are still contained within the two sandwich halves after the outer cover is removed from the inner container.

A suitable holding means comprises a holding member 84. The holding member is shaped and sized such that it can slide into an optional opening or retention slot (as will be described infra) and includes a locking means such as notches 116 which are shaped and sized so as to lock the holding means into place for use, as will be described infra. Moreover, if required, the holding member should flex sufficiently to allow the notches to lock into place. Additionally, in alternative embodiments, the holding member is shaped and sized such that the user may grasp it for handling. In alternative embodiments, the locking means is an adhesive or other bond. In yet other alternative embodiments, the locking means may be attached directly to the center member, in which case the holding member is unnecessary.

The holding member is constructed from a flexible material and is attached to the base member 104 of the center member using pressure bonding, thermal bonding, adhesive, pressure-sensitive adhesive, or other suitable bonding methods as are known in the arts and which are compatible with the materials used. In alternative embodiments, the holding member may be formed integrally with the center member from the same sheet of material. Alternatively, the holding member may be constructed from a rigid material.

In other alternative embodiments, the holding means can be located on the same side as either or both the first tab and the second tab. In alternative embodiments, the first and second ends of the outer cover can extend so that they touch each other and, if desired, can also be releasably attached to each other, preferably using a pressure-sensitive adhesive or other suitable bond as is known in the art. In yet other alternative embodiments, one or more center members may be combined and used jointly when forming the inner container.

In other alternative embodiments, the center member is a flat sheet of material and has no substantial height. For example, parts of the center member (e.g., the side members) may be partially made integrally with the outer cover from the same sheet of material. The outer cover is separated from the center member by a weakened line (e.g., a score, tear-strip or other suitable method as is known in the art). The base member is then attached to the outer cover, and during separation of the outer cover from the base member, the side members are formed.

In use, the inner container is filled by attaching the lower portion of the outer cover to the center member so as to form a cavity for containing the filler. The filler is then placed on the lower portion of the outer cover, and the outer cover is then releasably attached to the center member. The optional upper and lower sandwich halves are then placed adjacent to the upper and lower sides of the inner container and, optionally, held in position using an optional outer container or box means etc. as will be described infra. Alternatively, the filler is placed on a portion of the outer cover, and the outer cover is then releasably attached to the center member. The optional sandwich halves are then applied as described supra.

A top planar-view-illustration of the first embodiment of the inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 3, having a single outer cover and a filler, is shown in FIG. 4. The inner container 74 is shown with the filler 101 contained therein. The center member 78 comprises a base member 104 and spaced-apart side members 120A and 120B which extend outward from the base member. The side members diverge slightly from each other as they extend outward from the base member (so that they avoid contacting the filler as much as possible when the center member is removed from the optional sandwich). The side members have ends 122 which are located opposite the base member. The ends of the side members are rounded, or otherwise shaped, so as to allow a peel-stress-type bond during removal of the outer cover 76 from the center member in the area of the ends. Alternatively, the side members extend outward parallel to each other or in other directions (e.g., the side members can be semi rounded, etc).

The draw members which are used are depicted as shown in FIG. 1 above. But, if bread or another soft substance is used for the sandwich halves, then wider draw members or full-width draw members (as shown in FIG. 2) should be used to provide for a smoother opening of the inner container as described supra.

In alternative embodiments, the side members may extend outward from the base member parallel to each other. In yet other alternative embodiments, the side members join each other at both ends so as to form a ring-like structure. In other embodiments, either or both side members are eliminated. In yet other alternative embodiments, one or more side members, or parts thereof, may be removable from the center member. In other alternative embodiments, a cross member is attached to the outer cover adjacent to the outer cover fold 86, and extends between the side members so as to provide additional rigidity to the outer cover (especially in those embodiments which use a multipart outer cover). The cross member can be optionally attached to either or both the outer cover and the center member.

In alternative embodiments, the base member or the bond between the base member and the outer cover, can be curved, “V” shaped, or shaped in some other way that will reduce the force required to break the bond between the outer cover and the base member. For example, the side members may form a “V” shape meeting at the center of the “V,” in which case the base member is eliminated.

A side-view illustration of a second embodiment of the inner container of the present invention, having a two-piece (multipart) outer cover, is shown in FIG. 5. The inner container, generally referenced 130, is similar to the inner container as shown in FIG. 4 and described above, but has a two-piece outer cover 132 which comprises a first sheet 134 and a second sheet 136. The outer cover is attached to the center member 144 similarly to the way it is attached in the first embodiment of the present invention. The first sheet is attached to the second sheet using a pressure-sensitive adhesive or other means (e.g., adhesives, thermal bonding, pressure bonding, a weakened line such as a perforated or scored line, etc.) as is known in the art. The first sheet is preferably attached to the second sheet in the area that is adjacent to the outer cover fold 142 so as to maintain a peel-stress-type bond between the outer cover and the center member 144 during removal of the outer cover from the center member. Alternatively, with adequate discretion, the first sheet is connected to the second sheet in other locations. In use, the first sheet is first separated and removed (to expose the filler 141) from the center member, and then the second sheet is optionally removed. In use, both the first sheet and the second sheet can be removed from the center member without having to separate both portions from each other. The inner container may also be used as a plate by removing only the first sheet and eating out of the container formed by the second sheet and the attached center member.

A side-view illustration of a third embodiment of the inner container of the present invention having a single outer cover is shown in FIG. 6A. The inner container, generally referenced 150, is essentially similar to the inner container which is shown in FIG. 3 above and described in the corresponding text, with a difference being the inclusion of engaging tabs 152 which are attached to the side members 154 of the center member 156. Additionally, an optional weakened line 158 (e.g., a perforated or scored line), which runs transversely across the width of the outer cover 162 so that it extends to both side members, and is adjacent to the mid fold 160 of the outer cover, is included so the outer cover may be split or separated into two or more portions (e.g., a first sheet and a second sheet) if desired. A filler 166 is contained within the inner container.

A top-planar-view illustration of a third embodiment of the inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 6A, having a single outer cover and a filler, is shown in FIG. 6B. The holding members are shaped such that they can lock into side notches of an optional outer container, or can be held by the user's hand.

A perspective-view illustration of a fourth embodiment of the inner container of the present invention with a partial cutaway of the outer cover is shown in FIG. 7. The inner container, generally referenced 170, comprises a center member 172, an outer cover 176, a holding member 180, a first draw member 174, and a second draw member 178. The optional narrow-width draw members are shown for clarity, and in actual embodiments, it is preferred that full-width draw members be used. The outer periphery of the outer cover is releasably attached to the center member using a pressure-sensitive adhesive or other means (e.g., adhesives, thermal bonding, pressure bonding, a weakened line such as a perforated or scored line, etc.) as is known in the art. A flexible holding member is attached to the center member. In alternative embodiments, the holding member is formed integrally with the center member from the same sheet of material. In yet other alternative embodiments, the holding member is rigid. The holding container should be sufficiently wide, and should be placed, so that the center member does not significantly deform when the inner container is opened. In alternative embodiments, the holding member comprises a flexible section and a base section which is rigid. The base section is attached to the center member. The first end of the first holding member and the second end of the second holding member are releasably attached to each other so as to form a common tab 182.

A perspective-view illustration of a fifth embodiment of the inner container of the present invention having a two-part center member and using a two-part outer cover, is shown in FIG. 8A. The inner container 190 comprises a first center section 191, a second center section 196, a first outer cover 192, a second outer cover 193 (shown peeled back), a first draw member 196, a second draw member 194, and a means for holding.

The first center section has distal ends 198. The second center section has distal ends 199. The distal ends of the first center section are located adjacent to the distal ends of the second center section so that the first and second center sections encircle the desired filler.

The first outer cover (seen with partial sections cut away) has an interior side, an exterior side 200, an inner periphery 197, an outer periphery 201, and a first end 202 which projects from the outer perimeter of the outer periphery of the first outer cover. The second outer cover (seen peeled away from the second center section) is shaped and sized similarly to the first outer cover and has an interior side, an exterior side, an inner periphery, an outer periphery, and a second end which projects from the outer perimeter of the outer periphery of the second outer cover.

The first draw member extends from the first end of the first outer cover, and comprises a first end and an opposed second end 151, and an optional first tab 203. The second end of the first draw member is attached to a first end of the first outer cover. Likewise, the second draw member 194 extends from the second end of the second outer cover and comprises a first end 153, an opposed second end, and a second tab 155. The second end of the second draw member is attached to the second end of the second outer cover.

The outer periphery of both the first outer cover and the second outer cover are releasably attached (e.g., using adhesive, etc.) to both the first center section and the second center section so that the interior sides of both the first outer cover and the second outer cover face each other, and such that a cavity suitable for holding a filling is formed. The first tab and the second tab superpose each other and are attached to each other so as to form a common tab.

The means for holding the first and the second center sections comprises a first holding member and a second holding member. The first holding member 204 is attached to the first center section and provides a means for handling the inner container both before and after use. A second holding member 206 is provided for separating and removing the second center section from the first center section after the first and second outer covers are removed. After the first and second outer covers are removed from the center member, the center sections are removed from each other by pulling the holding members in opposite directions. If desired, the center member is then slid away from the filler 157. Narrow draw members are shown for clarity, and, in actual embodiments, full-width draw members are preferred.

A locating means (e.g., a weakened line, a tab, a hinge, a notch, a friction fitting, or other suitable locating method) is used to positively locate the center sections relative to each other so that after the outer covers are removed from the first and second center sections, the center sections are held adjacent to each other until they are separated from each other by the user. For example, adhesive tape having a desired strength can be attached to both the first center section and the second center section adjacent to, and across, the distal ends of both center sections. The tape should be sufficiently strong such that the center sections remain attached to each other during removal of the outer covers. After the outer covers have been removed, pulling the first and second holding members in opposite directions will break the tape and allow the center sections to be pulled apart from each other.

In alternative embodiments, one side of the adjacent distal ends of the first and second center sections are hingedly connected, while the other side is releasably attached so that after the first and second outer covers are removed from the first and second center sections, the first and second center sections can be pivoted (rather than separated) and then removed from the filler.

In alternative embodiments, only a single outer cover is used. This outer cover is wrapped around the second holding member such that the mid fold of the outer cover is adjacent to the second holding member.

In yet other alternative embodiments, the adjacent distal ends of the first and second center sections are hingedly connected to each other while the other pair of adjacent distal ends are releasably attached to each other so that after the outer covers are removed from the first and second center members, the first and second center members can be pivoted and removed from the filler. In yet other alternative embodiments, the first center member is attached to the second center sections at a weakened line (e.g., a score, perforation, etc.) and, if desired, they are separated from each other by pulling their holding members in opposite directions. In further alternative embodiments, the first and second center members are releasably attached to each other using a friction fit (e.g., a tab and a notch or other engaging means).

A perspective-view illustration of the fifth embodiment of the inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 8A, with the first outer cover and attached draw member removed, is shown in FIG. 8B. The lower sheet 193 is seen under the filler 157 (which is partially cut away).

A perspective-view illustration of the fifth embodiment of the inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 8A, with the outer covers removed and the center sections separated from each other is shown in FIG. 8C. The second center section is held by the second holding member and is pulled in direction of arrow WW away from the first center section. The filler is partially cut away.

A top-view illustration of the single-piece outer cover and attached draw members according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 9. The outer cover 212 has an inner periphery 235, an outer periphery 236, and first and second ends 228 and 229 respectively. The inner periphery and outer periphery are separated by line 223. The side extensions 224A and 224B extend along the longitudinal edge of the outer cover between the first and second ends of the outer cover. The side extensions are releasably attached to a portion of the outer perimeter of the outer cover at the weakened lines 226, and, preferably, run parallel to each other but, in alternative embodiments, can assume other shapes. The weakened lines can be formed by scoring (e.g., kiss cut, etc.), perforating, including a tear strip, or other suitable method. For instance, depending upon the material used, the weakened lines can be formed by the natural progression of a tear line. For example, when using cellophane (such as is commonly used in potato-chip packaging), a natural tear line will progress from the separation notches to the midfold. Those portions of the outer cover which lie between the mid fold and the first end of the outer cover are known as the first portion 225, while those portions of the outer cover which lie between the mid fold and the second end of the outer cover are to be known as the second portion 227.

In alternative embodiments, the holding means is formed by extending the side extensions at longitudinal edges 231 and 233 (which extend along the longitudinal length of the side extensions between the first and second ends of the outer cover) by any desired length.

A top-planar-view illustration of a sixth embodiment of the inner container of the present invention having a composite center member and a single-piece outer cover is shown in FIG. 10. The inner container, generally referenced 210, comprises the outer cover 212 (which will be described in more detail infra.), a retained portion 214, a holding member 216, a first draw member 218, and a second draw member 220. The retained portion comprises a base member 222 and two side members 224. The side members are releasably attached to the outer cover at weakened lines 226 (e.g., by scoring, perforating, tear cord, etc.) and are attached to the base member using any suitable bond (e.g., adhesives, thermal bonding, pressure bonding, etc.) so that the side members do not separate from the base member. The side members are formed from two side extensions which are formed integrally with the outer cover from the same sheet of material (as will be described infra.) and extend between the first and second ends 228 and 229 of the outer cover respectively, and the mid fold 230 of the outer cover.

Alternatively, the outer cover, holding member, retained portion and first and second draw members are all formed integrally from the same sheet of material. The different portions of the single sheet of material are assigned different names to illustrate the different functions performed by each portion. Further, the weakened lines may be eliminated and optional ‘V’ notches used to direct the tearing forces along the length of the outer cover (dashed lines 226). The forces are applied when the draw members are pulled so as to remove most of the outer cover to expose the sandwich filler therein while a small retained portion remains behind.

The outer cover is folded over itself (at the mid fold) and is releasably attached to the base member (which is formed integrally with the holding member from the same sheet of material—and is actually a part of the holding member) using any suitable bond (e.g., adhesive, thermal bonding, pressure, pressure-sensitive adhesive bonding, etc.). The adjacent opposed surfaces of the side extensions are attached to each other using a suitable bonding method (e.g., adhesives, thermal bonding, pressure, pressure-sensitive adhesive bonding, etc.) so as to form the completed side members. Optional separation notches 232 are located adjacent to the ends of the outer cover and intersect the weakened lines. The separation notches act to concentrate forces transferred from the draw members to the weakened lines so as to cause the weakened lines to tear. The separation notches are shown as large V-shaped cutouts but, in actuality, can be any type of weakened line. The holding member is attached to the center member. The first and second draw members are formed integrally with the outer cover from the same sheet of material. Optional tab means suitable for grasping are attached to the first and second draw members. Filler 236 is located within the inner container.

A sectional-view illustration of the sixth embodiment of the present invention taken along line 11A-11A of FIG. 10 is shown in FIG. 11A. The outer cover (and the attached side extensions) is folded at the mid fold (which is actually a sharp fold and not a gradually rounding fold as shown) and is attached to the base member as described supra, thus forming two side members. The adjacent interior portions of the side extensions are attached to each other, thus forming the side members. Each side member extends from the base member (to which it is attached) to the mid fold. Each draw member includes a tab means 234 which is suitable for grasping.

A sectional-view illustration of the sixth embodiment of the present invention taken along line 11B-11B of FIG. 10 is shown in FIG. 11B. The outer cover (and the attached side extensions) is folded at the mid fold, and the adjacent interior portions of the side extensions are attached to each other, thus forming the side members. In alternative embodiments, the weakened lines can be located closer to the interior portions of the container so that the outer cover can fold neatly over itself as it is separated from the side members. Additionally, an optional blocking member (not shown) can be inserted within the cavity of the inner container so as to equalize the exterior thickness and/or rigidity of the package in desired areas. Blocking members are desirable when using vacuum packaging and a thick filler. Blocking members can be placed at selected locations or continuously along the outer perimeter of the outer cover. Moreover, if desired, blocking members can be attached to the center member and/or the outer cover so that they can be removed when opening the package.

A sectional-view illustration of the inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 11B, with blocking members inserted within the interior cavity, is shown in FIG. 11C. The blocking members 213 are placed in the interior region of the inner container and extend substantially along the length of the side members so as to equalize the thickness of the package. The blocking members may be shaped and sized as desired.

A perspective-view illustration of a seventh embodiment of the inner container of the present invention having a composite center member and a single-piece outer cover is shown in FIG. 12. The inner container, generally referenced 630, comprises the outer cover 212, the center member 634, a holding member 636, a first draw member 218, and a second draw member 220. The center member 634 comprises a base member 642 and two center side members 644A and 644B. The outer cover is the same as the outer cover as shown and described in FIG. 9 above. The outer cover and the adjacent side extension are partially cut away to view a side member and the filler 648 contained within the inner container.

The outer cover 212 is folded over itself (at the mid fold) and is releasably attached (in the area that lies between the weakened lines 226 and is adjacent to the first and second ends 228 and 229 respectively) to the base member 634 using a suitable bond (e.g., adhesive, thermal bonding, pressure, pressure-sensitive adhesive bonding, etc.). The side extensions of the outer cover are attached to the adjacent side member of the center member using a suitable bond (e.g., adhesive, thermal bonding, pressure, pressure-sensitive adhesive bonding, etc.) thus forming the completed side members. In use, the outer cover separates from the side members at the weakened lines.

A perspective-view illustration of the inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 12, as the outer cover is separated from the center member, is shown in FIG. 13. The outer cover is pulled in the direction of arrow JJ (by the draw members), which causes the outer cover to separate from the center member and to separate at weakened lines 226, and peel back over itself, thus exposing the filler. Continued pulling on the draw members causes the outer cover to fully separate from the center member. In alternative embodiments, parts of the center member can be attached to the exterior side of the outer cover adjacent to the side members.

A perspective-view illustration of the inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 12, having full-width draw members is shown in FIG. 14A. The inner container, generally referenced 650, is essentially similar to the inner container which is shown in FIG. 12 above and is described in the corresponding text, with a difference being the substitution of full-width first and second draw members 652 and 654 respectively, which are attached to the outer cover 656. An additional difference is the use of a hollowed-out (rather than solid) center member 658. Optional tab means comprises a common tab 660. Filler 662 is located within the inner container.

A perspective-view illustration of the inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 14A, having a holding means which is formed integrally with the outer cover, is shown in FIG. 14B. The inner container, generally referenced 880, is essentially similar to the inner container which is shown in FIG. 14A above and is described in the corresponding text, with a difference being the substitution of holding members 882 (shown with partial sections cut away) which are attached to, and formed integrally with, the side extensions of the outer cover 884 (which is also partially cut away for better illustration).

A perspective-view illustration of an eighth embodiment of the inner container of the present invention using a composite center member is shown in FIG. 15. The inner container, generally referenced 240, comprises an outer cover 242, a center member, a holding means, and two draw members 250. The outer cover 242 is similar to the outer cover as shown in other embodiments of the present invention and has an inner periphery, an outer periphery, an interior side, and a first end and a second end 252 and 253 respectively. The draw members are formed integrally with the outer cover from the same sheet of material and are attached to the outer cover. The center member comprises two side members 246A and 246B. The side members are held in position relative to each other (when the outer cover is removed) by the holding means. A suitable holding means comprises a holding member 238 which is attached to each of the side members and extends around the external perimeter of the outer cover and center member. The holding means should be sufficiently rigid so that the side members do not substantially flex during opening of the inner container. The outer cover is folded at mid fold 254 and is releasably attached (e.g., using adhesive, thermal bonding, pressure bonding, pressure-sensitive adhesive, etc.) to the side members so as to form a cavity for containing the filler 260.

A sectional-view illustration of the eighth embodiment of the inner container taken along line 16-16 of FIG. 15 is shown in FIG. 16. The outer cover is folded at the mid fold and is releasably attached to the side members as discussed above. Portions of the interior side 256 of the outer cover which are adjacent to each other at the first and second ends 252 and 253 respectively of the outer cover, are releasably attached to each other at bond 258 using pressure sensitive adhesive bonding or other suitable bonding method as discussed elsewhere in this document so that pulling on the draw members separates the bond 258 and also causes the outer covers to separate from the side members.

A perspective-view illustration of a ninth embodiment of the inner container of the present invention with a partial cutaway of the outer cover and the first draw member is shown in FIG. 17. The inner container, generally referenced 600, is essentially similar to the inner container which is shown in FIG. 3 above, and which is described in the corresponding text, with a difference being the use of an asymmetric center member rather than a symmetric or substantially symmetric one. This embodiment is particularly suitable for long items (e.g., hotdogs and the like) which are placed within an opened bun in which each of the two sandwich portions are connected to each other (as opposed to buns or other types of bread or rolls in which each sandwich portion is fully separated from the other). The center member 602 comprises a first side member 604, a second side member 606, and a base member 608. The first side member has a height HH and a length LL. The second side member has a height H and a length L. Heights H and HH are not equal to each other, so as to result in the inner container being wedge-shaped (when viewed from the side member ends to the base member as shown in FIG. 18 below). Additionally, lengths L and LL are not equal to each other, so that the outer cover 610 can be releasably attached to the center member without having to bend or fold the outer cover. Alternatively, the outer cover can be folded and attached to itself as desired. The base member is attached to both the first side member and the second side member. In alternative embodiments, the length of the first side member is substantially the same as the length of the second side member.

The outer cover is shaped and sized such that its outer periphery can be releasably attached to the center member (e.g., as shown the outer cover has a slight V-bend which is centered on the mid fold). A first draw member 612 and a second draw member 614 are attached to the outer cover. The first tab of the first draw member and the second tab of the second draw member are attached to each other so as to form an optional common tab 616. A filler (e.g., a hotdog as shown) 618 is contained within the inner container. A holding means comprising a holding member 620 is attached to the base member. The inner container is optionally heat stable and can be placed in an oven or other suitable device to cook or warm the filler if so desired. Additionally, the side members and/or the outer cover can be made from an optional transparent material so that the user can view the filler if so desired. In alternative embodiments, the inner container includes an optional weakened area or line which opens to release excess pressure when heating the inner container.

A cross-sectional-view illustration of the ninth embodiment of the inner container of the present invention, taken along line 18-18 of FIG. 17, is shown in FIG. 18. The inner container is shaped so that it can be at least partially inserted into an opened hotdog bun 622 as shown. The first side member has a height H and the second side member has a height HH. Heights H and HH are unequal, so as to result in the inner container being wedge-shaped. The filler (e.g., the hotdog) is contained within the inner container.

A side-view illustration of the ninth embodiment of the inner container inserted within a hotdog bun, with the outer cover opened and removed, is shown in FIG. 19. The hotdog bun is optionally held with the open side facing up such that the filler (hotdog) contained within falls into the bun when the outer cover of the inner container is removed as shown.

A side-view illustration of the ninth embodiment of the inner container as shown in FIG. 19 as it is removed by rotating the inner container is shown in FIG. 20. In this embodiment, the center member has rigid side members, allowing the center member to be rotated about its longitudinal axis (such as in direction R) and then removed from the filler and the bun by pulling in direction RR after the outer cover is removed. Alternatively, the inner container can be removed from the bun by pulling the inner container and the combination formed by the filler and the bun in a direction which is either parallel to, or substantially parallel to, the longitudinal axis of the inner container as shown and described elsewhere in this document.

An exploded top-planar-view illustration of a first embodiment of an outer container, with the inner container as shown in FIG. 4 above, is shown in FIG. 21A. The outer container 270 is a pop-open box which is common in the art, and is shown folded flat. The outer container is formed from a unitary blank of a semi-rigid material (e.g., cardboard, treated-paper, plastic, solid polymers, laminates, etc.) and includes a first side panel 272, a second side panel 274, a bottom panel 276, and side panels 278. The bottom panel is symmetrically folded about the bottom fold 280, and terminates at the first fold 282 which is adjacent to the first side panel, and on the other side terminates at the second fold (which is superposed by the first fold 282 and is shown as 283 in FIG. 21B infra), which is adjacent to the second side panel. An optional retention slot 284 is provided to retain the holding member 84 by engaging the notches 116 of the holding member. Alternatively, retention slots can be located adjacent to the side fold and retain holding members which are located on the side members of the center member as shown elsewhere in this document. Alternatively, adhesive or other suitable bonding method can be used to attach the inner container to the outer container.

The side panels of the outer container include side folds 286. The side panels are folded about their side folds and terminate on one side at the first fold 288 which is adjacent to the first side panel, and on the other side, at the second fold 290, which is adjacent to the second side panel. The side panels further include a side portion bottom 292 which is optionally cut so that the outer container remains upright if placed in an upright position and a side panel top 300, both of which extend from the first fold to the second fold and are folded about the side fold 286. The first side panel has a free edge 294 which extends between the first folds 288, and has an indentation which extends toward the first fold. Likewise, the second side panel has a free edge 296 which extends between the first folds, and has an indentation which extends toward the bottom panel. Alternatively, either or both of the free edges can be shaped as desired. The outer container has an opening which is located opposite the bottom panel, and which is defined by the free edges 294 and 296 of the first side panel and the second side panel respectively, and the side panel top 300 of the side panels 278. The outer container should be sized such that it holds the sandwich halves tightly and prevents the sandwich halves from moving when the outer cover is removed from the center member. Each second fold 290 extends from the adjacent side panel top to the side panel bottom, running substantially parallel to the adjacent first fold.

The inner container 74 is similar to the inner container which is shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, and is shown with narrow draw members for illustrative purposes only. The outer container receives and retains the inner container. The holding member 84 of the inner container is received by and held in place by a retention slot 284 which engages the notches 116 of the inner container. In alternative embodiments, an optional adhesive (e.g., heat bonding, etc.) can be used to attach the inner container to the outer container. In alternative embodiments the holding members may extend around the exterior portions of the outer container.

In one method of use, the inner container is filled and then inserted into the opening of the outer container so that the holding member slides into and engages the retention slot so that the inner container is firmly attached to the outer container. The outer container is then unfolded and the bottom panel is firmly positioned to hold the outer container in the opened position. Sandwich halves are then placed on either or both sides of the inner container and are held in position by the outer container.

An exploded bottom-planar-view illustration of the outer container with the inner container as shown in FIG. 21A above, is shown in FIG. 21B. Both the outer container 270 and the inner container have been reversed so that the opposite sides are shown.

A perspective-view illustration of an opened outer container with the attached inner container of FIG. 21A is seen in FIG. 22. The inner container contains a filler 101. In use, the inner container may be removed and opened, so that the filler is dispensed. Alternatively, sandwich halves can be inserted on either or both sides of the inner container so as to form a complete, ready-to-eat sandwich after removal of the outer cover.

A perspective-view illustration of an opened outer container with the attached inner container of FIG. 22 and sandwich halves is seen in FIG. 23. In use, the user holds the outer container and pulls the tabs of the draw members in a direction opposite that of the bottom panel, which causes the outer cover to peel away and separate from the center member, thus forming a complete, ready-to-eat sandwich which is removed from the outer container before consumption.

A perspective-view illustration of a second alternative embodiment of an outer container incorporating a box-type container is shown FIG. 24A. The outer container 700 is a box-type outer container which comprises a body portion 708 and a front portion 720, and is constructed from a unitary blank of a semi-rigid material (e.g., cardboard, treated-paper, paperboard, polypropylene, or foamed or other types of solid polymers, plastics, laminates, etc.). The body portion comprises a top panel 710, a bottom panel, side panels 712, a rear panel, and a cavity. The front portion comprises a first flap 704, a second flap 706, a third flap (which is located directly behind the second flap), a removable flap 702, and optional side flaps. The inner container and sandwich halves are contained within the outer container. The removable flap is constructed from the same sheet of material as the outer container and is connected to the first and second flaps via weakened lines 724 (e.g. perforated, scored, adhesives, etc.). Alternatively, the removable flap is constructed from a separate sheet of material and is releasably bonded to the body portion to seal the cavity. The removable flap further comprises a removal tab 718 which is suitable for grasping.

A perspective-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 24A with the removable flap peeled back to expose a common tab and a minor opening is shown in FIG. 24B. The removable flap is removed to reveal a minor opening which is located on the front portion and is defined by the inner perimeter of the opening formed by the first flap, the second flap, and the side flaps 726. The minor opening should be large enough so that the outer cover 740 can pass through it without requiring undue force when the inner container 738 is opened, but should be small enough so that the sandwich halves are contained within the cavity of the outer container as the outer cover is removed. Peeling back and removing the removable flap further exposes the common tab 730, the inner container, and the side flaps. The side flaps and the first and second flaps remain in the closed position until after the outer cover is removed from the inner container. Portions of the first and second flaps which face the side flaps are optionally releasably attached to each other using an adhesive or other suitable bond. If desired, an optional weakened line 725 (shown as a semicircle for clarity but which can be shaped as desired) can be placed on either or both the top panel and the side panels. The top panel can thus be fully or partially separated at the weakened line and peeled back over itself which would provide better access to the sandwich contained within the body portion. In alternative embodiments, only the body portion is used without the front portion.

A perspective-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 24B with the first and second flaps opened to expose the completed sandwich contained within is shown in FIG. 24C. After the removable flap and outer cover have been removed, the first flap, the second flap, and the side flaps are opened and folded back to expose the completed sandwich contained within the cavity. The top portion (with the attached first flap) can be peeled back and partially or fully separated at the weakened line 725 to provide better access to the sandwich contained within the body portion. The user can then remove the completed sandwich from the inner and outer container by reaching into the cavity of the outer container and grasping the sandwich halves and pulling them away from both the inner container and the outer container. The center member is shown slightly separated from the side panels for clarity. In alternative embodiments, the center member is in contact with the side panels.

A perspective-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 24A before the front panel is closed is shown in FIG. 24D. When sealing the package, the side flaps are closed first, after which the bottom flap is closed. The combination formed by the first flap, the removable flap, and the second flap is then closed. The second flap 706 is then attached to the adjacent third flap using an adhesive or other suitable bond so as to form a composite second flap. The combination formed by the attached second and third flaps is collectively referred to as the second flap.

The third flap is sized similarly to the second flap, but may be larger or smaller than the second flap if desired. The first and second flaps are sized such that they retain the sandwich halves in position when the outer cover is removed from the inner container. Additionally, the first and second flaps (as well as the optional side flaps) should not interfere with the movement of the outer cover as it is being removed from the inner container.

A side-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 24A with the enclosed inner container and sandwich halves is shown in FIG. 25A. A side panel has been removed for clarity. The inner container is located between the sandwich halves 742 within the outer container cavity. The holding means comprises a holding member 736 which is attached to the body portion using an adhesive or other suitable method (e.g., locking tabs, etc.). The proportions of the inner container and the outer container should be such that the sandwich halves are held adjacent to the inner container and do not move excessively when the unopened outer container is handled. The optional common tab is contained within the outer container cavity and is resilient so that it extends beyond the perimeter of the outer container when the removable flap is removed. A filler 734 is contained within the inner container. In alternative embodiments, the side flaps can have cutouts which allow for the outer cover to be removed without undue friction. In yet other alternative embodiments, the front portion can be attached to the body portion using weakened lines which extend from the front portion to the side panels, in which case the side flaps are optional.

A front-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 24A with the enclosed inner container and sandwich halves is shown in FIG. 25B. The front portion has been removed for clarity. The inner container is seen between the sandwich halves and is contained within the outer container's cavity. The common tab is centrally located.

A top-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 24A with the enclosed inner container is shown in FIG. 25C. The top panel and the adjacent sandwich half have been removed for clarity. The holding member extends substantially around the inner container so that the inner container is positively attached to the outer container. Optional narrow-width draw members are shown for illustration only.

A side-view illustration of a third alternative embodiment of an outer container incorporating a clamshell-type container is shown FIG. 26A. The outer container, generally referenced 750, is generally square in shape, and is formed from a unitary blank of material (e.g., polypropylene, foamed or other types of polymers, paper, foils, laminates, or other suitable material). The outer container has a tray portion 752 and a cover portion 754. The tray portion is hingedly attached to the cover portion at hinge 780. A locking means is incorporated to seal the cover portion to the tray portion. Suitable locking means include, without limitation, tabs and/or interference fits as are common in the art. The cover portion comprises a top panel 756, a front panel 758, a rear panel 760, two side panels 762, a first rim, and a first cavity. The tray portion comprises a bottom panel 764, a front panel 766, a rear panel 768, two side panels 770, a second rim, and a second cavity. The combined sizes of the top cavity and the bottom cavity should be great enough to hold the inner container and sandwich halves but not so great that the sandwich halves and the inner container move around unnecessarily during handling. The first cavity is defined by the top panel, the front panel, the rear panel, and the side panel of the cover portion. The second cavity is defined by the bottom panel, the front panel, the rear panel, and the side panels of the bottom portion. The inner container is flexibly attached via the holding means to the outer container. Suitable holding members include flexible members and hinges as described elsewhere in this document. For example, a suitable holding member comprises a flexible member with a pair of notches which is attached to the hinge. The inner container is attached to the outer container either before or after the sandwich half is inserted into the second cavity. The inner container is described elsewhere in this document.

Clamshell-type containers are well-known in the art. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,131,551, to Wells, entitled “One-piece merchandising container,” U.S. Pat. No. 4,653,685, to Leary, et al., entitled “Dual compartment sandwich package,” and U.S. Pat. No. 4,132,344, to Jewell, entitled “Foam sandwich package,” all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

A side-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 26A with the cover portion opened and including an attached inner container and sandwich halves is shown in FIG. 26B. The first rim 782 and second rim 786 define the opening to their respective cavities, and are fitted with optional flanges which are suitable for friction fitting the cover portion and the tray portion together in the closed position. An optional common tab 772 protrudes beyond the perimeter of the outer container so that it can be easily grasped. The inner container is between the sandwich halves 774.

A side-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 26A with the cover portion opened showing the attachment of the inner container is shown in FIG. 26C. The sandwich halves are inserted within the first and the second cavities. The inner container 776 is flexibly attached to the outer container (using a flexible holding member 778) so that the completed sandwich can be removed from the combination formed by the inner container and the outer container after the outer cover is removed. The inner container can optionally fit within the second cavity so that the completed sandwich can be stored above the inner container and so that the outer container with the attached inner container may be stacked prior to inserting the sandwich halves.

A front-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 26A is shown in FIG. 26D. The optional common tab is centrally located. In use, the cover portion is partially opened to expose the common tab. The outer cover is then removed by pulling on the common tab with one hand while the other hand holds the outer container in place. During removal of the outer cover, the cover portion and the tray portion keep the sandwich halves in position relative to each other and to the filler. After removal of the outer cover, the cover portion is fully opened and the completed sandwich is removed from the center member and the outer container. The center member then optionally falls to the bottom of the second container so that the completed sandwich can be partially placed within the second cavity during consumption by the user.

A side-view illustration of an alternative embodiment of the outer container of FIG. 26A with the cover portion opened and showing the hingedly-attached inner container is shown in FIG. 26E. This embodiment is similar to the inner container as shown in FIGS. 26A through 26D and described above, but uses an inner container which is rotated so that it is flexibly attached to the outer container at a location which is adjacent to the front panel 766 using a flexible holding member 763 so that the completed sandwich can be removed from the combination formed by the inner container and the outer container after the outer cover is removed. The inner container can optionally fit within the second cavity so that the completed sandwich can be stored above the inner container and so that the outer container with the attached inner container may be stacked prior to inserting the sandwich halves. The inner container is rotated in the direction of arrow YYY and placed between the sandwich halves. The optional common tab is located proximate to the hinge 780. The center member of the inner container can be optionally formed integrally with the outer container from the same sheet of material. This embodiment is suitable for vacuum-formed containers which are made from a semi-rigid material (e.g., polyethylene, polymers, or other suitable materials).

An exploded side-view illustration of an alternative embodiment of the outer container of FIG. 26A with the cover portion opened and including optional cavity seals is shown in FIG. 27A. This embodiment is suitable for warming the contents of the inner container (e.g., the filler) using heat lamps as is common in fast-food establishments. The first and second cavity seals 790 and 792 cover the first and second cavities, respectively. The cavity seals comprise one or more tightly-fitting flexible sheets of material (e.g., cellophane, mylar, polyester, etc.) which are releasably attached to the rims (751 and 753) of the cover portion and the tray portion respectively, so that the moistness (and cleanliness) of the sandwich halves contained within the first and second cavities is maintained during heating (and storage, if desired). Optional pull transmitting members 793 and 795 are attached to the cavity seals and transmit a force from the user to the attached cavity seal, which force separates and removes the cavity seals from the rim to which they are attached. The pull transmitting members include a first end and a second end. The first end of each pull transmitting member includes a tab 797 which is suitable for grasping, while the second end of each pull transmitting member is attached to the outer periphery of the adjacent cavity seal. The pull transmitting members optionally extend diagonally across the cavity seal so that only a small portion of the cavity seal is separated from the body or cover portion when the cavity seals are opened initially, thus reducing the force necessary to separate and remove the cavity seals from the outer container. In alternative embodiments, only a single pull transmitting member is used. In other alternative embodiments, the pull transmitting members are attached to each other. In yet further alternative embodiments, the pull transmitting member(s) are formed integrally with the cavity seals from the same sheet of material.

In alternative embodiments, a heat pad like that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,522,190, to Kuhn, et al., entitled “Flexible electrochemical heater,” can be placed proximate to, or incorporated into, the inner container and can be activated before use of the current invention, thus providing a portable heated meal.

The inner container 776 (seen behind the partial cutaway view of the side panel 770) should fit flush (below the rim) of the second cavity in which it is placed, so that the second cavity seal fits flush over the opening of the cavity. The cavity seals are peeled off the tray portion and the cover portion before consumption. Alternatively, a single cavity seal may be used to seal both the first cavity and the second cavity. Suitable methods of releasably attaching the cavity seal to the container include thermal bonding, pressure bonding, adhesive bonding, or other suitable methods of bonding. Alternatively, the cavity seal comprises a semi-flexible sheet of material (e.g., polypropylene, paper, foam, or other types of polymers, etc.) which is slidably engaged with a flange around the entire outer container or with the flange around each rim. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,213,256, to Cyr, entitled “Container Assembly Having a Removable Insert/Divider,” incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In yet other alternative embodiments, the cavity seal comprises a semi-flexible sheet of material (e.g., polypropylene) which is molded and friction fit to a flange (or other suitable member) of the cover portion and tray portion. If using a molded cavity seal, then the inner container does not have to fit flush within the cavity in which it is placed.

The cavity seal and outer cover are made from a clear or translucent material so that the customer can view the sandwich halves and filler before purchase, if desired. Alternatively, the opacity of the cavity seal and/or the outer cover can vary (e.g., the cavity seal can be reflective or opaque). For example, the first cavity seal can be made from a reflective material to reflect heat while the second cavity seal and the outer cover of the inner container can be made of a clear material to transmit heat and allow the user to view the filler contained within the inner container. In order to provide for a hermetic seal of the second cavity, the holding member 773 is optionally attached to the rear panel so that it is contained entirely within the interior of the second cavity.

In use, the cover portion is partially closed, the cavity seals are removed to expose the common tab (or other tab means), and the outer cover is removed from the inner container as described elsewhere in this document. In alternative embodiments, the cavity seals can be removed either when the clamshell is closed or opened.

In alternative embodiments, the common tab extends through a slot provided in the front panel. The slot should be shaped and sized such that the outer cover can be pulled through the slot when opening the inner container. The common tab is optionally releasably attached to the front panel so as to seal the slot in the second cavity. In use, the cover portion is folded upon the tray portion before the cover portions and the outer cover are removed from the inner container.

A top-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 27A seen with pull transmitting members which are arranged diagonally across the cavities is shown in FIG. 27B. The force transmitting members are pulled in the direction indicated by arrows DDD and DDDD, which are shown relative to the upper portion and the lower portion so that when the outer container is closed the arrows DDD and DDDD are superimposed upon each other.

A side-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 27A seen with a single pull transmitting member and a single-piece cavity seal is shown in FIG. 27C. The pull transmitting member 779 is substantially as wide as the cavity seal 777 and is attached to the cavity seal at a location which is between the first and second cavities and adjacent to the hinge. In use, the pull transmitting member is pulled in a direction which is perpendicular to the hinge (rather than diagonally across as in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 27A and 27B).

A side-view illustration of a fourth alternative embodiment of an outer container incorporating a clamshell-type box in the closed position is shown FIG. 28A. The clamshell-type outer container (hereafter outer container) 800 comprises a tray portion 802, a lid portion (or cover portion) 804, and one or more inner containers. The tray portion comprises a bottom wall 806, a front wall 808, a rear wall 810, two side walls 812, and a pair of latching detents 814. The cover portion comprises a top wall 816, a front wall 818, a rear wall 820, two side walls 822, and a pair of engaging tabs 824. The tray portion and the cover portion are hingedly located relative to each other via a hinge 826. The inner container(s) is (are) attached to the outer container via a holding means (e.g., a flexible holding member) which is attached to the outer container using an adhesive (or a friction/interference or other suitable method). The inner container is placed within the outer container such that the sandwich halves 828 can be placed on either side of the inner container when the outer container is closed (as shown) and such that the outer cover can be easily removed from the inner container. A common tab 830 optionally extends beyond the perimeter of the front wall of the tray portion but is located under the front wall of the cover portion so that it is not mistakenly pulled. A front wall fold line 834 extends across the front panel of the cover portion.

The clamshell-type container and its structure are well known in the art. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,205,476, to Sorenson, entitled “Clamshell carton having an improved latching mechanism,” and U.S. Pat. No. 4,877,178, to Eisman, entitled “Paperboard foldable carton,” both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

A side-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 28A with the cover portion opened is shown in FIG. 28B. The sandwich halves are located adjacent to, and on each side of, the inner container 832. The inner container is flexibly attached to the outer container so that the completed sandwich can be removed from the combination formed by the inner container and the outer container after the outer cover is removed. The inner container can optionally fit within the cavity formed within the tray portion so that the completed sandwich can be stored above the inner container and so that the outer container with the attached inner container may be stacked prior to inserting the sandwich halves.

A front-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 28A with the cover portion in the closed position is shown in FIG. 28C. The optional common tab is centrally located under the front wall.

A side-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 28A with the front wall of the tray portion pulled back to expose the common tab is shown in FIG. 28D. In use, the user pulls up on the bottom edge of the front wall of the tray portion so that the front wall of the cover portion folds over itself at the front wall fold line and exposes the optional common tab. This also creates an opening which is shaped and sized such that it is large enough to allow the outer cover of the inner container to pass through it as the outer cover is removed from the inner container, but small enough so that the front walls retain the sandwich halves in position when the outer cover is removed from the inner container. After the outer cover is removed, the user opens the cover portion to expose the completed sandwich. The user then tilts the sandwich and removes it from the inner container, thus forming a complete sandwich.

A partial cutaway side-view illustration of the inner container and outer container of the present invention, with sandwich halves inserted, is shown in FIG. 29A. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 21 through 23 supra. The outer container 500 is partially cut away to illustrate the inner container 502 and the sandwich halves 508. The outer container is constructed from a semi-rigid material (e.g., foam, cardboard, plastic, laminates, etc.). The first and second draw members 504 and 514 respectively, extend beyond the perimeter of the inner container. The outer cover mid fold 516 is shown for illustration. In the embodiment shown, the draw members are attached to each other adjacent to their first ends so that the first and second tabs form a common tab 506.

A partial cutaway side-view illustration of an inner container and outer container of FIG. 29A, as the inner container is opened and the outer cover removed, is shown in FIG. 29B. The outer container is held by the user. The user then pulls the common tab away from the inner container, which causes the outer cover to peel away from the center member. The outer cover separates from the center member beginning at the base member and continues separating until the outer cover fully detaches from the center member. During the separation of the outer cover from the center member, the outer cover folds over itself. In optional embodiments where the first ends of the pull members are not attached to each other, the user may remove one side of the outer cover and then remove the other side.

A partial cutaway side-view illustration of the inner container and attached outer container of FIG. 29B, with the outer cover removed, is shown in FIG. 29C. After the outer cover 510 and the attached draw members are removed from the center member, they are discarded. Because the outer cover folds over itself and scrapes the sandwich halves as it is removed from the center member, it tends to clean itself upon the sandwich halves, thus preventing the filler 518 from sticking to the outer cover. This minimizes wasted filler, minimizes the possibility of the filler soiling the user, and also makes it easier for the user to dispose of the outer cover. Additionally, because the outer cover peels away from the filler, the outer cover tends not to pull the filler apart.

A partial cutaway side-view illustration of the inner container and attached outer container of FIG. 29C, as the sandwich halves and filler are pulled from the opened inner container, is shown in FIG. 29D. The sandwich halves and filler (i.e., the completed sandwich) are pulled (in the direction as indicated by arrow GG,) from the outer container and the opened inner container contained therein.

A perspective-view illustration of a fifth alternative embodiment of an outer container incorporating a tubular body is shown in FIG. 30A. The outer container, generally referenced 850, is tubular in shape with at least one opening, and is constructed from a flexible material (e.g., aluminum foil, paper, cardboard, other solid polymers, etc.). The outer container comprises a body portion 852, a first side free edge 854, a second free edge 858, an optional exterior holding portion 860, and a major opening. The exterior holding portion is suitable for grasping, and is attached to the inner container's holding member 620 using an adhesive or other suitable method as discussed elsewhere in this document. In alternative embodiments, the holding member 620 is optional as the outer container is attached directly to the side members and/or the base member of the inner container using an adhesive or other suitable bonding method as discussed elsewhere in this document. The first side free edge has two optional indentations 856 which are sized such that the user can grasp the sandwich halves 622 while opening the inner container as well as remove the completed sandwich once the outer cover has been removed. The completed sandwich is removed from the outer container through the outer container's major opening. The outer cover and the completed sandwich are removed from the outer container by pulling the completed sandwich in the direction indicated by arrow MM. In alternative embodiments, the outer container is extended so that a beverage or other desired object can be contained within the outer container. In yet other alternative embodiments, a heating pad (such as discussed supra) or other portable heating device can be placed proximate to the inner container and provide a thermal source for heating the filler. For example, a heating pad can be placed on the exterior side of either or both side members.

In alternative embodiments, the outer container further includes a minor opening located adjacent to the major opening. The minor opening is shaped and sized such that the outer cover and the attached draw members can pass through it when the package is opened, but small enough so that the sandwich halves cannot pass though it. The minor opening is removed or opened so that the completed sandwich can pass through the major opening when the sandwich halves are removed from the outer container. In yet other alternative embodiments, the outer container is constructed from a rigid or semi-rigid material.

A perspective-view illustration of the outer container with a removable cover portion as shown in FIG. 30A is seen in FIG. 30B. The removable cover portion 862 is attached to the body portion 852 and includes a minor opening 864 through which the tab means 616, the draw members, and the attached outer cover can pass when the inner container is opened, but which is small enough so that the sandwich halves cannot pass through it as the inner container is being opened. After opening the inner container (by pulling the common tab 616 in the direction of line VV), the cover portion is either torn open or fully removed from the body portion. The cover portion is preferably made integrally with the body portion from the same material as the body portion and is attached to the tubular body portion using a weakened line (e.g., a weakened line which coincides with the first side free edge, which defines the major opening) or other suitable attachment means. Alternatively, the removable cover portion can be slightly larger in diameter than the tubular body portion, and secured to the body portion by sliding it over the body portion and using an optional adhesive. In other alternative embodiments, the minor opening of the cover portion is sealed using an adhesive, a flap, etc.

A cutaway side-view illustration of the tubular outer container shown in FIG. 30A is shown in FIG. 31. The outer container should be shaped and sized such that the sandwich halves are held within the inner container by friction but can be readily removed from the outer container when desired. Although the tubular outer container is shown as a substantially cylindrical shape, in alternative embodiments it can be oval, square, or formed in other shapes as desired.

A perspective-view illustration of the inner container of FIG. 7 contained within a flexible outer container is shown in FIG. 32. The outer container 520 is constructed from a flexible material (e.g., Mylar, plastic, paper, foil, cellophane, laminates, etc.) and is attached to the inner container 522 via the holding member. The holding member 528 is slid through an optional slot (not shown) in the outer container before the outer container is folded and wrapped around both the inner container and the sandwich halves 524. An optional adhesive or other suitable sealing method (e.g., thermal bonding, pressure bonding, tape, adhesive, etc.) is used to hold the outer cover in position around the combination formed by the sandwich halves and the inner container. The draw members 526 are attached to each other adjacent to their first ends so that the first and second tabs form a common tab 552.

In alternative embodiments the outer container forms a hermetic seal around the sandwich halves and optionally the inner container, and has a removable cover section. In yet other alternative embodiments, the outer container includes a cover portion so as to fully conceal the sandwich halves contained within. The cover portion is attached to the outer container via a weakened line (e.g., scoring, perforating, adhesives, etc.). Before the inner container is opened, the outer cover portion of the outer container is removed. The outer cover should be shaped and sized such that the sandwich can be readily removed from within.

An exploded perspective-view illustration of the inner container and flexible outer container of FIG. 32 and an outer box means with the cover peeled back is shown in FIG. 33. The outer box means 530 comprises a box portion 548 and a box cover 532. The box portion 548 comprises a primary cavity suitable for holding the combination formed by the inner container, the optional outer container, and the optional sandwich halves. The primary cavity is defined, for the most part, by a first end wall 538, side walls 534, divider walls 540, and bottom wall 536A. The optional secondary cavity is defined, for the most part, by second end wall 542, the divider walls 540, secondary side walls 546, and the bottom wall 536B. The box portion 548 is constructed from a semi-rigid material (e.g., polypropylene, cardboard, paper, polystyrene, foamed polymers etc.) or other suitable material. The secondary cavity is used for containing other food items (e.g., drinks, desserts, etc). The primary cavity should be shaped and sized such that it is large enough so that a user can readily grasp the sandwich for consumption.

The side walls 534 have optional concavities 544 which protrude within the cavity so as to hold the sandwich firmly in place within the cavity during shipping. The concavities allow the user to readily grasp the sandwich by the sides for consumption. In alternative embodiments, any suitable protrusion is used so as to prevent the sandwich from moving substantially within the cavity during shipping. Likewise, the bottom wall has one or more optional concave regions which protrude within the cavity to hold the sandwich in place during shipping but allow the user to readily grasp the sandwich for consumption.

The inner container 520 is attached to the bottom wall 536 of the box means via the holding member 528 using an adhesive or other suitable bonding method (e.g., pressure bonding, thermal bonding, locking mechanisms, latches, notches, friction fit, etc.). The holding member should allow the inner container and the optionally attached outer container to move sufficiently so that the outer cover can be removed from the inner container and so that the sandwich can be removed for consumption. Alternatively, the inner container can be (hingedly) attached to the box means using hinges, tabs or other suitable friction-fit methods, or can be formed integrally with the box means. The draw members are placed within the cavity but, in alternative embodiments, the draw members may extend through a slot in one of the adjacent side walls of the cavity such that the draw members and the attached outer cover can be removed from the inner container before the box means is opened. Alternatively, a take-up-spool mechanism can be employed to accept the draw members and the outer cover.

The box cover (only a partial section is shown) is releasably attached to, or formed integrally with, the box portion 548 and hermetically seals the interior (e.g., the primary and the secondary cavities) of the container. To open the outer box means, the box cover is peeled away (e.g., as indicated by arrow T) from the box portion to expose the outer container (and inner container and sandwich halves) contained therein. The box cover is constructed from a flexible material (e.g., Mylar, plastic, cellophane, paper, foil, laminates, etc.) and is attached to the outer box means using pressure bonding or other suitable methods (e.g., thermal bonding, pressure bonding, adhesive bonding, etc.). In alternative embodiments, the box cover can be constructed from a semi-rigid or rigid material. In alternative embodiments, the draw members are releasably attached to a take-up spool so that the draw members and the attached outer cover can be taken up on the spool.

A side-view illustration of the outer box means and inner container and flexible outer container of FIG. 33, with the outer box means' cover partially opened, is shown in FIG. 34A. The outer box means 560 comprises a box portion 578 which is constructed from a semi-rigid material as described elsewhere in this document and a box cover 562 which is constructed from a flexible material as described elsewhere in this document. The box portion comprises two compartments: a primary compartment and an optional secondary compartment. The primary compartment contains the combination formed by the inner container, the sandwich halves, and the outer container, while the secondary compartment contains one or more optional condiments 574 (e.g., drink, snack, etc.). The outer container is constructed from a flexible material (e.g., plastic, Mylar, cellophane, paper, aluminum, laminates, etc.) which partially encloses the combination formed by the inner container and the sandwich halves contained therein. In use, the box cover is peeled away from the box portion (as indicated by arrow TZ) to expose the cavities and the optional common tab 564, which extends (as indicated by arrow SZ), beyond the perimeter of the inner container and the box portion.

A side-view illustration of the box means of FIG. 34A with the cover opened, and the user pulling on the draw members of the inner container, is shown in FIG. 34B. The common tab is pulled away from the inner container 566 in the direction indicated by arrow YY, which causes the outer cover to peel away from the center member. The outer cover separates from the center member beginning at the base member and continues separating until the outer cover fully detaches from the center member. During the separation of the outer cover from the center member, the outer cover folds over itself. In alternative embodiments where the first ends of the pull members are not attached to each other, the user may remove one side of the outer cover (i.e., the upper sheet) and then remove the other side (i.e., the lower sheet), which would reduce the amount of force necessary to remove the outer cover from the center member.

The primary cavity is large enough so that the inner container, the outer container 570, and the sandwich halves 572 can be positioned properly to remove the outer cover. After the outer cover and the attached draw members are removed from the center member, they are discarded.

A side-view illustration of the box means of FIG. 34B with the cover opened and the outer cover removed and discarded, as the completed sandwich is being removed from the inner container, is shown in FIG. 34C.

The sandwich halves and filler 576 (i.e., the completed sandwich) are pulled (in a direction indicated by arrow Z) from the outer container and the opened inner container 566 contained therein. The inner container 566 and the outer container 570 are then left alone or folded into the cavity so that the user may place the completed sandwich back into the primary cavity for temporary storage. The optional condiments have been removed.

A perspective-view illustration of a sixth alternative embodiment of an outer container incorporating a box-type container is shown FIG. 35A. This embodiment is essentially similar to the embodiment shown and described in FIG. 24A and the accompanying text, a difference being that the body portion 908 is extended so that optional objects (e.g., a beverage container 944, snacks, and/or other desired objects) can be contained within the body portion. The outer container 900 is a box-type outer container which comprises a body portion 908 and a front portion 920, and is constructed from a unitary blank of a semi-rigid material (e.g., cardboard, treated-paper, paperboard, polypropylene, foamed or other types of solid polymers, plastics, laminates, etc.). The body portion comprises a top panel 910, a bottom panel, side panels 912, a rear panel, and a plurality of cavities. The front portion comprises a first flap 904, a second flap 906, a third flap (which is located directly behind the second flap), a removable flap 902, and optional side flaps. The inner cavity comprises a primary cavity and an optional secondary cavity which are not delineated by any walls but, in optional embodiments, can be separated by interior walls, etc. as desired. The inner container and sandwich halves (the upper sandwich half 921 is shown) are contained within the primary cavity of the outer container, while the optional condiments (e.g., drinks, snacks, etc.) are contained within the secondary cavity. The removable flap is constructed from the same sheet of material as the outer container and is connected to the first and second flaps via weakened lines 924 (e.g. perforated, scored, adhesives, peel strip, etc.). Alternatively, the removable flap is constructed from a separate sheet of material and is releasably bonded to the body portion to seal the cavity. The removable flap further comprises a removal tab 918 which is suitable for grasping. An optional window 940 is located in the top panel and allows for viewing of the contents of the package. An optional weakened line 942 is located on the top panel and allows the top panel (and the attached first flap) to be partially peeled back and/or removed from the body portion so as to allow for more convenient access to the sandwich contained within the body. An optional beverage container (e.g., a Tetra Brick™ container manufactured by the Tetra Pack Corp, Vernon Hills, Ill., a can, and/or other desired object) is contained within the secondary cavity. The beverage container is accessed and removed by opening the rear panel. Alternatively, the beverage container is removed by peeling back the top panel so as to provide access to the beverage container.

A rear perspective-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 35A is shown in FIG. 35B. The rear portion 930 is constructed similarly to the front portion and comprises a first flap 934, a second flap 936, a third flap (which is located directly behind the second flap), a removable flap 932, and optional side flaps. Additionally, an optional weakened line 935 is located on the bottom panel 933 and provides for easier access to the sandwich contained within the body. In alternative embodiments, the rear portion is constructed of a single flap which is releasably attached to the body portion via weakened lines.

In alternative embodiments, the outer cover includes one or more pockets which are formed integrally with it or are attached thereto. The pockets are opened either before or during removal of the outer cover from the center member such that the contents of the pockets (e.g., salt, ketchup, etc.) are dispensed upon the filler or other desired object. The pockets include weakened lines which tear the pockets, thus opening them due to pressure within the pockets as the outer cover is peeled back over itself

A side view illustration of an inner container of the present invention including pockets for dispensing condiments is shown in FIG. 36A. For the sake of clarity, it will be assumed that the inner container (dispenser) 1000 is similar to the inner container shown in FIG. 3. However, the outer cover 1004 includes one or more pockets 1002 having openings formed, for example, using weakened lines (which are not shown), for dispensing one or more viscous condiments 1003 such as ketchup. When the outer cover 1004 is folded over itself by pulling draw members 1010 in the direction of arrow 1011, the one or more condiments 1003 are forced out of the one or more pockets 1002 via the openings. The weakened lines can include perforations, scores, etched lines, etc., and preferably begin to open at a location that is adjacent to the point at which the outer cover 1004 is folded over itself as it is being removed from the filler 101, such that the condiment (e.g., ketchup, mustard, jams, etc.) is forced from the one or more pockets 1002 and is deposited upon the adjacent filler 101 or sandwich half (as desired). The weakened lines may be continuous or discontinuous, and/or have a desired shape (e.g., zigzag, wave, etc.). Accordingly, the strength of the weakened lines forming the openings may be controlled such that the weakened lines open in a controlled fashion. For example, the weakened lines can be weaker at a location that is proximate to the start of a traveling fold (e.g., see, FIG. 13) and is stronger at a location that is proximate to other locations of the traveling fold as the outer cover 1004 is folded over itself when being removed from the filler 101. The openings may be shaped such that the condiment is dispensed in a desired pattern (e.g., a pattern resembling a corporate trademark, a flag, an advertisement, a cartoon character such as Mickey Mouse, etc.). Alternatively, layer 1012 may be superposed upon openings (or weakened lines—both of which are not shown) and removed prior to removing the outer cover 1004 by pulling upon draw member 1008 in the direction that may be opposite arrow 1011 so as to remove layer 1012 so that the openings are exposed to allow the condiments 1003 contained within the pockets 1002 to be forced from the openings when the outer cover 1004 is peeled back over itself during opening of the package. Draw member 1008 can be attached to tab 1006 which is frangibly attached to dispenser 1000 such that rocking the frangible tab 1006 is the direction of arrows 1013 (or in other directions, as desired) would cause the frangible tab 1006 to break away from the center member 1014. The openings (and or weakened lines) should also be sized with consideration to the viscosity of the one or more condiments contained in the respective pockets.

By using multiple pockets, each filled with a differently colored condiment (e.g., strawberry jelly, blueberry jelly, peanut butter, etc.), different desired patterns may be produced as desired. Although not shown, one or more pull tabs (such as tab 1006 described below) may be used to open different respective pouches (e.g., mustard) so that a user can, for example, dispense mustard and not ketchup, as desired.

A top view illustration of an inner container of the present invention including pockets for dispensing condiments shown in FIG. 36A is shown in FIG. 36B. The pockets 1002 can be arranged as desired.

A partial cutaway side view illustration of an inner container of the present invention including pockets for dispensing condiments shown in FIGS. 36A-B is shown in FIG. 36C. The filler 1003 can be dispensed via holes 1016 which are exposed when removing layer 1012 and/or can be dispensed via weakened areas such as weakened lines 1018, as shown.

A side view illustration of an outer container including inner containers is shown in FIG. 37A. For the sake of clarity, one or more fillers 101 are separated from sandwich halves 103A and/or 103B by one or more outer covers 3702. Although not shown, the outer covers 3702 may extend beyond the outer periphery of outer container 3704. The outer container 3704 may be formed from one or more of a flexible film, cardboard (e.g., treated, untreated, etc.), or polymer, etc., type of material. Optional outer covers 3706 define at least part of a cavity for holding sandwich halves 103A and 103B. The outer covers 3702 and 3706 can be removed, for example, using draw members 3710. Although not shown, parts of either of one or more adjacent draw members 3710 (or parts thereof) can be attached to each other such their functions can be combined. In other words, that one draw member 3710 of a pair of adjacent draw members is pulled by the user via, for example, a single tab. An optional part 3706A of outer covers 3706 can extend beyond the outer periphery of the outer container 3704 and define an opening for removing the respective sandwich halves 103A and/or 103B. In use, the outer covers 3702 and 3706 are removed by pulling optional tab 3708 in the direction of arrow 3712. Part 3706A can be used in place of or attached to first and/or second flaps 704 and 706, respectively, or parts thereof, as shown in FIGS. 24A-24C.

A partially cutaway front view illustration of the outer container including the inner containers shown in FIG. 37A is shown in FIG. 37B. The outer container 3704 is preferably formed from a molded polymeric material and forms optional side members 3714 for supporting the outer covers 3702 and 3706 during use. In optional embodiments, the outer cover may be made from materials which can include paper, treated paper, aluminum, etc. and/or combinations thereof. It is also envisioned that the inner container can include a center member which can be attached to the outer container. For example, a “V”-shaped center member as described elsewhere in this application, may be used. In other words, inner containers such as those which are described elsewhere in this application can be used within the outer container. For the sake of clarity, the distance between the fillers and/or sandwich halves is greater than would be used in actual embodiments.

As will be described below, the outer container 3704 may be formed from a flexible material (e.g., a Mylar film, etc.) or may be formed from a more rigid material (e.g., treated cardboard) and can have a form which, when viewed from the top, forms various shapes such as a triangle, square, rectangle, semi-circle, etc., as desired. For example, with reference to FIGS. 38A-C, a tri-shaped outer container 3800T is shown. The tri-shaped container 3800T or the like can dispense two halves of a sandwich which are packaged together. It is preferred that at least part of the outer container and the inner container are formed from a see-through material so that a consumer can see the type of filler(s) and/or sandwich halves that are contained within the food dispensing package of the present invention. Although, an outer container for dispensing two sandwich halves (i.e., a sandwich which is cut in half diagonally across the one or more sandwich halves) is shown, the present invention is not limited to such. For example, a single or multiple sandwiches may be dispensed using the present invention. Moreover, by stacking the inner containers according to the present invention at preset distances to each other multiple sandwiches may be dispensed. This can be advantageous in airline settings where, for example, a plurality of sandwiches each with corresponding inner containers can be located on a single tray (or outer container) and dispensed as necessary. Thus, flight attendants or automated means can dispense fresh sandwiches as necessary during flights. Thereafter unused sandwich parts can be re-used on another flight.

A front view illustration of a tri-shaped outer container having two sandwich fillers for dispensing two cut halves of a sandwich is shown in FIG. 38A. The outer container 3800 is similar to the outer container 3704 and thus, for the sake of clarity, like numerals have been used. However, as will be shown in FIG. 38B, the draw members 3710 may be thinner. Additionally, optional third and fourth sandwich halves 103C and 103D, as shown in FIG. 38A, are placed between the fillers 101 so that a sandwich that is cut in half can be formed and/or dispensed using the outer container of the present invention. An optional flange 3816 for securing one or more optional covers 3814 may extend partially about the outer periphery of the outer container 3800. The sandwich halves 103C-D are held in position by optional outer cover 3706 similarly to the way in which fillers 101 are held in position by outer covers 3706. Although not shown, the draw members 3710 may be attached to each other to form one or more groups for removing the outer covers 3702 and 3706 when the respective draw members are pulled in the direction of arrow 3702. After outer covers 3706 are opened, they may be removed or partially separated from the package 3800 either directly of by using a tear strip and/or weakened lines (e.g., perforated, scored, etched, etc.) which are preferably exposed after opening the package 3800. Accordingly, weakened lines/tear strips WA (shown as x′s) can, for example, be located in an area that runs longitudinally across the width of the draws members 3710. The tear strip and/or weakened lines are preferably exposed when the outer cover 3706 is in the opened position, and extends laterally across the outer cover 3706. However, tear strips and/or weakened lines may be placed at other locations of the package 3800 such that a user can easily remove a completed sandwich from the package 3800 after it is formed. Because the side view of the outer container 3800 is essentially similar to the side view of outer container 3704, an illustration thereof has not been provided.

A cutaway illustration of the outer container including inner containers shown in FIG. 37A taken along line 37C is shown in FIG. 37C.

A top cross sectional view illustration of the tri-shaped outer container of FIG. 38A is shown in FIG. 38B. For the sake of clarity, the optional outer cover 3814 is not shown (i.e., is removed).

A front three quarters perspective view illustration of the tri-shaped outer container of FIG. 38A is shown in FIG. 38C. The one or more optional covers 3814 are attached to the flange 3816 and each preferably includes a tab 3814C for removing the corresponding cover 3814 from the package. The one or more outer covers 3814 preferably seal (either singularly or in combination thereof) the interior portions of cavities contained within the outer container 3704. Moreover, if using the one or more outer covers 3814 to seal the interior portions of the outer container 3704, then the outer covers 3706 which at least partially seal the cavities which hold the sandwich halves 103A-D may not be necessary to provide sanity to the sandwich halves 103A-D.

A top view illustration of a composite outer cover according to the present invention is shown in FIG. 39. The composite outer cover 1200 includes a plurality of layers such as layers 1210, 1212, and 1216, respectively (which are illustrated with reference to FIG. 40A) corresponding to a first, second, and third layers. The first layer 1210 is attached to the second layer 1212, which is attached to the third layer 1216. The second layer 1212 includes an inner periphery (also known as a center area or window area) 1202 of the second layer 1212 defined by line 1204 and an outer periphery 1214. Line 1204 may include a weakened area such as is shown, in which case the inner periphery 1202 may be present (i.e., not cut out). However, if desired, the inner periphery 1202 the second layer 1212 may be cut out or otherwise removed (i.e., to form a window area), in which case, line 1204 separates the inner periphery from the outer periphery 1214, and the first and third layers 1210 and 1216 are attached directly to each other (e.g., using heat, pressure bonding, adhesives, etc.) in at least portions of the window area 1202. In either case, pulling on the first layer 1210 causes the third layer 1216 to separate from itself proximate to line 1204. This will be more clearly illustrated with reference to FIGS. 40A and 40B illustrated below. Line 1208 denotes an area proximate to where the center fold would be located. The outer cover 1200 is folded in those areas which are adjacent to folds 1226 and 1228 such that draw members 1206 can be used to pull at least portions of the outer cover 1200 over itself so as to separate at least part of the outer cover 1200 from itself and expose the filler 101 as described elsewhere in this application.

A cutaway side view illustration of the composite outer cover shown in FIG. 39 taken along line 40 is shown in FIG. 40A. As shown, it is assumed the line 1204 denotes the outer periphery of window area corresponding to the window area 1202. Accordingly, the first layer 1210 is attached to the third layer 1216 in the window area 1202 using an adhesive or other bonding method such as heat, etc., which, for the sake of illustration, is shown as an optional adhesive layer 1220. When opening the package (i.e., when at least parts of the outer cover 1200 are peeled over themselves so as to open the inner container including the outer cover 1200), the first layer 1210 pulls the third layer 1216 so that the third layer 1216 separates at area 1218 proximate to lines 1204, thus exposing a filler (e.g., a sandwich filler contained therein—not shown). Side areas 1214 of the second layer 1212 remain in place. This is more clearly illustrated with reference to FIG. 40B which illustrates the composite outer cover shown in FIG. 40A after opening. Although a three-layer covering is shown, two or more layers may be used, as desired. The layers should be laminated (attached) to each other so that they may have a desired adhesion. Accordingly, adhesives, heat bonding, etc., may be used to attach the layers (either fixedly or releasably) as necessary to each other. By using weakened areas, layers may be separated from each other and/or from themselves at predetermined areas so that the filler may be exposed when opening the package and dispenser of the present invention. Although the window area is shown as a generally oval area, depending upon the materials used for the outer cover, chevrons, modified rectangles (or polygons) and/or angled lines may be used to define the weakened area or window area so that uniform force may be established during the opening of the package and dispenser of the present invention. Suitable holding means for holding the outer cover 1200 in place during opening are preferably provided. For example, a center member (as described elsewhere in this application—e.g., see, FIG. 3) may attached to the side areas (i.e., outer periphery 1214) of the second layer 1212 (e.g., via the third layer 1216). Alternatively, other methods can be used to hold the outer cover 1200 in a desired position. For example, side extensions (such as those described with respect to FIGS. 9-14 may be attached to at least the second layer to hold the layer to hold the outer cover 1200 (via for example side extensions as discussed elsewhere in this application) in a desired position during dispensing. Although many other patterns and layering styles are envisioned, for the sake of clarity, they will not be discussed. In other embodiments, it is envisioned that one or more of the layers (or parts thereof) has thickness or stiffness which differs from one or more of the other layers. For example, the outer periphery 1214 of the second layer 1212 may be formed from a treated cardboard material and provide additional stiffness during opening. In other embodiments, it is envisioned that a composite outer cover having weakened areas or lines such as those shown with respect to the outer cover shown in FIGS. 9-14 may be used.

A top view illustration of a sandwich filler contained within a portion of an opened outer cover is shown in FIG. 41. The outer periphery 1214 of the second layer 1212 is shown surrounding the sandwich filler 101 after the outer cover 1200 has been opened.

A cutaway side view illustration of the composite outer cover shown in FIG. 39 taken along line 42 is shown in FIG. 42. For the sake of clarity, only those portions of the second and third layers 1212 and 1216, respectively, that lie between ends 1226 and 1228 are shown, and those portions of the second and third layers, 1212 and 1216, respectively, that lie between ends 1222 and 1228 are removed. Alternatively, a weakened line may be located at ends 1226 and 1228, and extend through the second and third layers 1212 and 1216, respectively, so that these layers (i.e., the second and third layers 1212 and 1216, respectively) are at least in part optionally discontinuous at ends 1222 and 1228 so that a proper pulling force may be transferred from the first layer 1210 to the third layer 1216 to cause the third layer to tear apart from itself during use. The center fold 1208 is shown for the sake of clarity.

A cutaway side view illustration of another composite outer cover taken along line 40 of FIG. 39 is shown in FIG. 43A. The composite cover 1200A is similar to the composite cover 1200 shown in FIG. 39. However, the composite cover 1200A is formed using two or more layers, i.e., first and second layers 1230 and 1232, respectively, which are laminated to each other and, in at least certain areas, may peel apart from each other as the outer cover 1200A is peeled over itself. The second layer 1232 has weakened lines 1234 (e.g., scored, laser etched, perforated, cut, etc.) so that the first layer 1230 and the attached center portion 1238 of the second layer 1232 separate from side portions 1236, when the outer cover 1200A is peeled over itself. Accordingly, the bond between the side portions 1236 of the second layer 1232 and optional holding means for holding at least parts of the outer cover 1200A in a desired position during opening of the outer cover 1200A should be stronger than the bond between the side portions 1236 and either corresponding areas of the first layer 1230.

A cutaway side view illustration of the composite over cover shown in FIG. 43A with the first layer separated from a part of the second layer is shown in FIG. 43B. When the outer cover is peeled back over itself, (e.g., when opening the cavity), the first layer 1230 separates from the side portions 1236 of the second layer 1232. The optional center portion 1238 of the second layer 1232 remains attached to the first layer 1230. The side portions 1236 preferably stay in place.

A cutaway side view illustration of another outer cover which is similar to the outer cover shown in FIG. 39 and taken along line 42 is shown in FIG. 44. The first and second layers 1230 and 1236, respectively, optionally extend the full length of the outer cover 1200B. A discontinuity or weakening of the second layer 1236 is present at lines 1240 so that when the outer cover 1200B is peeled over itself, the side portions 1236 of the second layer 1232 remain in place. The discontinuity or weakening may include scored, laser etched, perforated etc., lines. Accordingly, when the outer cover 1200B is folded over itself and peeled back over itself, side portions 1236 remain attached to optional holding means such as a blocking member, a center member, side extensions, etc.

A partially cutaway top view illustration of a composite outer cover formed into an inner container for dispensing a filler is shown in FIG. 45A. Outer cover 1242 (which is similar to the composite outer covers described elsewhere in this application—e.g., see, FIGS. 39-44) is folded over itself at the center fold 1208 and at folds 1246 such that the outer cover 1242 forms at least part of a cavity (for holding a filler 101) and the extensions (such as draw members) 1206 extend over the inner periphery 1202.

A top view illustration the inner container shown in FIG. 45A is shown in FIG. 45B. The inner container is partially open. In other words, only one extension 1206 of the two extensions has been moved in the direction of arrow 1250, thus partially exposing the filler 101 contained within the partially open cavity.

A top view illustration of the inner container shown in FIG. 45A with the extensions and the corresponding parts of the outer cover removed from the side portions is shown in FIG. 45C. The first layer 1230 and the corresponding window area 1202 of the second layer 1232 have been removed such that the filler 101 within the package can be dispensed. The side portions 1236 formed when the outer cover 1242 is opened, form a center part 1254 which is similar to the center member shown elsewhere in this application.

A side view illustration of the package shown in FIG. 45A is shown in FIG. 46. The package 1400 is formed by folding the outer cover (e.g., outer cover 242) over itself at center fold 1208 and folds 1246. At least some of parts of the adjacent parts of the side portions 1236 of the outer cover 1242 are then attached to each other using, for example, a heat bond, adhesives, etc., such that at least part of a cavity for holding a filler 101 (not shown) is formed. The adjacent side portions 1236 of the outer cover may also be attached to a center member or other blocking member such that a larger cavity having a desired size and shape for holding the filler is formed. This is better illustrated with reference to FIGS. 9-16. Side extensions may be formed by extending one or more layers (i.e., the second layer) so that the inner container can be held in a desired position when the outer cover is opened. Optional holding means (not shown) may be attached to the center member, holding member, or side extensions, as desired.

A side view illustration of a composite inner/outer container is shown in FIG. 47A. The composite inner/outer container 1300 includes a tubular part 1302, which can form parts of both the outer container and inner container as will be described below, and one or more extension parts (i.e., draw members) 1304 which are attached to (or formed integrally with) the tubular part 1302. In use, the tubular part 1302 is folded over itself as shown in FIG. 47B so as to form a barrier between the . sandwich halves and a filler.

A side view illustration of the composite inner/outer container shown in FIG. 47A folded about a filler is shown in FIG. 47B. The composite inner/outer container (or package) 1300, which is shown with its sides in an open position such that the inner container is visible between sandwich halves 1306, includes a tubular part 1302 and one or more extension parts 1304 which are attached to the tubular part 1302. In use, the tubular part 1302 is folded so as to form one or more barriers (which are similar to the outer cover as described elsewhere in this application) between the sandwich halves 1306 and a filler 1308. The tubular part 1302 is preferably folded a plurality of times at locations 1324, as shown. However, in alternative embodiments, a single fold may also be used. For the sake of clarity, the extension parts 1302 are shown abutted against the tubular part 1302. However, the extension parts 1302 may be attached to the tubular part 1302 using an overlapping joint, adhesives, etc., as desired. In use, pulling on the extension parts 1304 in the direction of corresponding adjacent arrows 1312 removes corresponding portions of the tubular part 1302 from between the filler 1308 and the sandwich halves 1306, thus forming a ready-to-eat sandwich. It is also envisioned that the tubular part 1302 may be formed from a sheet which is folded about itself and does not form a complete tube. In other words, the tubular part may be discontinuous in one or more desired areas. After the tubular part 1302 is folded as shown, the open ends of the tubular part may be sealed to each other so that the one or more cavities contained therein are sealed. Although not shown, it is also envisioned that multiple folds may be provided such that a plurality of fillers may be separated from each other and the sandwich halves. A holding means such as that which is shown in FIG. 47I can be used to locate the filler and corresponding barriers.

However, it is also envisioned that the tubular part may be wrapped using another wrapping, i.e., an outer wrapping (not shown) so that one or more cavities of the tubular part are sealed. Flushing may also be used to remove oxygen from the one or more cavities of the tubular part. If desired, the filler 1308 may be sealed within its own cavity so that, for example, liquids may be separated from the sandwich halves 1306. This is better illustrated with reference to FIG. 47C. In use, pulling on the one or more extension parts 1304 in the direction of opposing arrows 1312 removes the folds of the tubular part 1302 from between the filler 1308 and the corresponding sandwich halves 1306. Portions of the sides 1316 of the composite inner/outer container 1300 may be attached to each other using, for example, an adhesive, heat bonding, etc., so that the sandwich halves 1306 are firmly held in place. Moreover, by sealing portions of the sides of the composite inner/outer container 1300 to each other, the one or more cavities within the composite inner/outer container 1300 can be sealed against outside contamination, if desired. One or more optional center members (or part thereof) 1340 may be releasably attached to one or more of the corresponding barriers. However for the sake of clarity only one center member 1340 is shown.

Although not shown, if it is desired to separate only one sandwich half from at least part of the filler 1306, only a single extension part 1304 (or set of layers) would be necessary. Accordingly, only one side (i.e., an upper or a lower side) of the filler 1308 would be separated from an adjacent sandwich half 1308.

A detailed partial side view illustration of a sealed inner container formed within the tubular part of FIGS. 47A-B is shown in FIG. 47C. Portions of the tubular part 1302 that are used to form at least part of the cavity for holding the filler 1308 are attached to blocking members 1314 so as to form an inner container 4700C. The blocking members 1314 are shaped and sized such that they form at least part of the cavity for holding the filler 1308.

A detailed partial side view illustration of an alternative tubular part having integrally formed extension parts is shown in FIG. 47AA. The package 1300AA is essentially similar to the package shown in FIG. 47A, however the tubular part 1302AA is folded as shown so as to integrally form extension parts 1304AA, as shown. The overlapping parts of the extension members 1304AA may be attached to each other using, for example, an adhesive or heat sealing means. As package 1300AA is essentially similar to package 1300, for the sake of clarity, a detailed description thereof will not be given.

A detailed partial side view illustration of another sealed inner container formed within the tubular part of FIGS. 47A-47B, is shown in FIG. 47D. The tubular part 1302 is folded so as to form an inner container 4700D which is similar to the inner container 4700C, with a difference being the absence of the blocking members 1314. Although the tubular part 1302 forms the inner container 4700D, the inner container 4700D may be formed from separate sheet(s) of material. Moreover, the inner container 4700D may include a plurality of layers which can separate as described elsewhere in this application (e.g., see FIGS. 9 and 39). In yet other embodiments, it is envisioned that the inner container 4700D may be formed using a composite outer cover as described elsewhere in this application. To open the inner container 4700D, draw members 1304 are pulled in opposite directions as shown by arrows 1312 of FIG. 47B.

A top view illustration of the composite inner/outer container shown in FIG. 47A folded about a filler is shown in FIG. 47E. The sides 1316 of the composite inner/outer container 1300 are shown attached to each other. As shown, those parts of the tubular part 1302 that are located between the folds 1322 (i.e., substantially within the outer cover) preferably have a width (as shown by W) such that ends 1330 that are located within the outer cover are narrower than the exterior width (e.g., defined by WW) of the package formed from the composite inner/outer container 1300 such that the extension parts 1304 and the corresponding attached layers of the tubular part 1302 may be pulled without substantial restriction when removing the tubular part 1302 from the filler 1308. The extension parts 1304 may then be shaped and sized such that their widths are similar in size to width W. The composite inner/outer container 1300 is shown with sides 1316 in a closed position. In use, the tubular part 1302 is folded so as to form one or more layers between sandwich halves 1306 and a filler 1308. In use, pulling on the flexible parts 1304 in the direction of arrows 1328 removes corresponding portions of the tubular part 1302 from between the filler 1308 and the sandwich halves 306, thus forming a ready-to-eat sandwich. Portions of the sides 1316 of the composite inner/outer container 1300 are attached to each other (e.g., using an adhesive, heat bonding, etc.) so that the sandwich halves 1306 are firmly held in place. Moreover, by sealing portions of the sides of the composite inner/outer container 1300 to each other, the one or more cavities within the composite inner/outer container 1300 can be sealed against outside contamination, if desired.

However, if desired, those parts of the tubular part 1302 that are located between the folds 1322 (i.e., the folds located on the same side of the package (i.e., on the right or left side of the package as shown)) may have a width which is similar to WW such that ends 330 that are located within the package are the same as or substantially the same as, the exterior width (e.g., defined by WW) of the package. Accordingly, weakened lines and/or one or more cuts, scores, etc., may be used such that the extension parts 1304 and those portions of the tubular part that are pulled to expose the sandwich filler 1308 to the sandwich halves 1306 can separate at the weakened lines and move freely so as to be able to allow the extension parts 1304 to move and open the package. Furthermore, the tubular part 1302 may also include a holding means for holding the blocking members 1314 and/or center member, as desired. This is more clearly illustrated with reference to FIGS. 47F and 47G which illustrate a composite inner/outer container which is similar to the inner/outer container of FIG. 47E. As shown, separation of the tubular part 1302 progresses along weakened lines 1334. A cutout (e.g., a diamond-shaped cutout—which is shown as a broken “V” shaped notch) 1336 may be used to concentrate forces upon the weakened lines 1334 such that the weakened lines separate as desired when the package is opened. Accordingly, portions of the sides 1316 of the composite inner/outer container 1300F can be attached to each other (e.g., using an adhesive, heat bonding, etc.) so that the sandwich halves 1306 are firmly held in place and a holding means is provided.

To access a sandwich contained within the composite inner/outer container shown in FIGS. 47A-47F, the tubular part can be separated in one or more parts or ripped open. Accordingly, weakened lines (e.g., scores, perforations, a pull strip, etc.) can be provided to aid the user in accessing a sandwich contained within the composite inner/outer container. This will be more clearly illustrated with reference to FIGS. 48A-48D below.

A front view illustration of the composite inner/outer container shown in FIG. 47E is shown in 47 folded about a filler is shown in FIG. 47H. The sides 1316 of the tubular part 1302 are shown in a sealed position (i.e., attached to each other and to side extensions.

A top view illustration of a holding means according to the present invention is shown in FIG. 47I. The holding means is suitable for includes an optional center member 1340 including first and second ends 1341 and a cutout 1343. The center member 1340 is preferably made from a planar semi rigid material such as a treated cardboard or a polymer. However, the center member 1340 may also be embossed or shaped other wise. In use, one or more center members 1340 are releasably attached to one or corresponding barriers such that the barriers separate from the barriers (outer covers) separating the filler and/or sandwich halves. The first and second ends can correspond with ends 1316 of the tubular part 1302.

A side view illustration of a package having a composite inner/outer container is shown in FIG. 48A. The composite inner/outer container 4800 includes a tubular part 4802, which can form parts of both the outer container and inner container as will be described below, and one or more extension parts (or draw members) 4804 attached to (or formed integrally with, e.g., see, FIG. 47AA) the tubular part 4802. In use, the tubular part 4802 is folded over itself so as to form one or more folds at locations 4806 and 4808 as shown and form at least part of a barrier portion (e.g., outer covers 4805 and 4807) located at least in part between the sandwich halves 103A and 103B and the filler 101 (when the package is in the closed position as opposed to an open position which can be similar to the position shown in FIG. 26C—dependent upon whether the sides of the package corresponding to sides 1316 are sealed together). Draw members 4804 are optionally attached to the tubular part 4802 adjacent to the folds 4808. However, it is also envisioned that the draw members may be formed integrally with the tubular part (e.g., see FIG. 47AA). A portion of the tubular part that is adjacent to the folds 4808 can be optionally attached to a rear section 4810 of the tubular part 4802, and can optionally seal a cavity 4701 for containing the filler 101. However, the barriers forming the inner container can also be attached to a holding means on the sides of the inner container such as is shown in FIGS. 47F-47G. In other embodiments, it is also envisioned that the rear wall can include an optional tab which is suitable for grasping by a user and an optional holding means for positioning an inner container in a desired position. This concept will be better illustrated with respect to FIG. 48B shown below. Opening the package shown in FIG. 48B will be explained below with respect to FIGS. 48C-E. Optional weakened lines (e.g., scoring, perforations, cutouts, etc.) may extend, for example, across at least a part of the width of the outer covers 4805 and/or 4807 and may include tear strips 4809 for separating those parts of the inner container that are removed form a completed sandwich.

A side view illustration of the package having a composite inner/outer container and rear holding means is shown in FIG. 48B. The composite inner/outer container 4800B is essentially similar to the package shown in FIG. 48A, however the rear wall 4810 includes a tab member 4812. Although the tab member 4812 may be formed from a separate sheet of material that is attached (e.g., via adhesives, etc.) to the rear wall, as shown the rear wall is folded to form the tab member 4812. Moreover, as shown, an optional holding means, such as holding member 4814 (which, for example, can be similar to the holding means 216 shown in FIG. 11A and/or other holding means shown elsewhere in this application) is attached to the rear wall 4810. One or more tear strips (weakened lines, etc.) 4800 are torn to totally or partially separate the draw members and the attached parts of the outer covers from the package 4800.

A side view illustration of the composite inner/outer container shown in FIG. 48B as it is being opened is shown in FIGS. 48C-D. After the composite inner/outer container 4800B is opened, the optional one or more tear strips are torn to totally or partially separate the draw members and the attached parts of the outer covers from the package 4800 as shown. Parts of the composite inner/outer container may include thicker materials and/or materials having weakened lines etc., so that a desired shape, form and/or operation may be achieved. Moreover, the composite inner/outer container may be incorporated at least partially within another container (e.g., a box, partial box—such as a box having one or more flexible sides, etc.). For example, the composite inner/outer container shown in FIG. 48A can be placed within (and attached to) the outer containers shown in FIGS. 21, 24, 26, 28-30, 33-35, etc.

A cutaway side-view illustration of the composite inner/outer container 4800 shown in FIG. 48A within the box-type outer container shown in FIG. 24A is shown in FIG. 49. Although not shown, the composite inner/outer container 4800 is preferably attached in one or more areas to adjacent parts of a rear wall panel 4904 and to top and bottom walls, 4910 and 4912, respectively, of the box-type outer container 4902. For example, substantial portions of the composite inner/outer container 4800 which are adjacent to is preferably attached (using for example, a pressure-sensitive adhesive, etc.) in one or more areas to adjacent parts of the rear wall panel 4904 and to top and bottom walls, 4910 and 4912, respectively, of the box-type outer container 4902. Holding means can include one or more center members and may be formed integrally with or attached to the box-type outer container 4902. For example, the holding means may include a center member and/or side portions (of an outer cover) which are attached to side panels (not shown) of the box-type outer container 4902. An optional front panel 4906 can include one or more flaps (not shown) such as is shown in FIGS. 24-25. For the sake of clarity, the sides 1316 of the composite inner/outer container 4900 are optionally not attached to each other. As the operation of opening the composite inner/outer container 4900 is similar to that which is described with reference to FIGS. 24-25, for the sake of clarity, a further description thereof will be omitted.

A partial perspective view of an outer cover including weakened areas and side extensions is shown FIG. 50A. The outer cover 5000 includes a first layer 5000U defining weakened lines (or areas) 5002 and optional stress enhancing areas such as voids 5004 which magnify stress upon the weakened lines 5002 so that they easily separate when one or more attached draw members pull at least a part of the outer cover 5000 (i.e., the first layer 500U) over itself so as to open the package and form a sandwich. The weakened areas form side extensions 5006 (as described elsewhere in this application—which can be attached to, or form, at least parts of a center member). Those areas defined by the side extensions 5006 may also include rigidity enhancing means (such as a treated paper, polymer, etc.) to enhance the rigidity in the corresponding area(s). Lines 5008 define a window area of an optional second layer 5010 (which does not include voids 5004 and is laminated to the first layer 500U of the outer cover 5000.

A partial perspective view of the outer cover shown in FIG. 50A is shown in FIG. 50B. One or more draw members 5018 are attached to the first layer 5000U of the outer cover 5000 adjacent to (or at) line 5015 which can be a fold line or a discontinuous area of the first layer 5000U of the outer cover 5000. In use, the first layer 5000U is folded at lines 5013 and 5017, and is also folded at line 5013 if the first layer 5000U of the outer cover 5000 is continuous a line 5013. The outer cover 5000 is also folded at lines 5013S. Accordingly, the first layer 5000U of the outer cover 5000 is delaminated from the second layer 5000U in those areas which lie between the voids 5004 and folds 5013 and 5015 so that pulling on the one or more draw members 5018 causes the outer cover 5000 to separate at weakened lines 5000 and at optional lines 5008. For the sake of clarity, only a portion of the outer cover 5000 is shown. However, elements of the outer cover 5000 can be repeated so as to form a desired package and container (e.g., with one or more pockets for containing fillers) for dispensing one or more sandwich fillers, etc.

A container including two pockets for dispensing a food product is shown in FIG. 51A. The container 5100 includes a first part 5102 and an optional second part 5104. The first and second parts 5102 and 5104, respectively, each include a cavity (i.e., first and second cavities, respectively) for containing a desired product (both of which are not shown) and first and second outer covers 5106 and 5108, respectively, for defining at least part of each corresponding cavity of the first and second parts 5102 and 5104 respectively. Removal means for removing the first and second outer covers 5106 and 5108, respectively, can include one or more draw members 5110, as shown, which extend from an opening 5114 which is located between the first and second parts 5102 and 5104, respectively. As shown, the first and second outer covers 5106 and 5108, respectively, are folded at folds 5112 so as to integrally form the one or more draw members 5110. However, it is also envisioned that other removal means be used to remove the outer cover(s). The first outer cover 5106 is attached to the first part 5102 and the second outer cover 5108 is attached to the second part 5104. An optional common tab 5118 is used to transfer a force to both of the draw members 5110.

A top view illustration of the first part of the container shown in FIG. 51A taken along lines 51B is shown in FIG. 51B. The first part 5102 includes a flange 5116 which extends about cavity of the first part 5102 of the container 5100. The outer cover is attached to the flange 5116. The second outer cover 5108 is attached to the second part 5104, in a similar fashion. Accordingly, for the sake of clarity, a top view illustration of the second part 5104 is not shown.

A side view illustration of the first part of the container shown in FIG. 51A is shown in FIG. 51C. The first part 5102 and the second part 5104 are attached to each other using any suitable means. For example, a friction fitted flange can be used as shown. In other embodiments, it is envisioned that hinge means, etc. can be used to connect the first and second parts together. For example, the first and the second parts can be formed from the same sheet of material and hinged together.

In use, the container 5100 is opened by pulling on common tab in the direction of arrow 5113 so that it imparts a force to the one or more draw members. This force, in turn, causes the corresponding outer cover to peel back over itself and expose a food product contained within the corresponding cavity of either or both of the first and second parts of the container 5100.

Although a round container has been shown, other shapes are envisioned. Moreover, it is also envisioned that certain parts of the container can be heated and/or cooled so that, for example, a hot and/or cold first food product such as a condiment can be deposited upon a hot and/or cold second food product in an adjacent cavity. Thus, for example, fudge can be heated (e.g., using microwaves which are directed to the second part) in the second cavity and thereafter deposited upon a desired food product in the first part. Accordingly, microwave and/or heat shielding means may be included to shield desired portions of the first and second parts.

There are numerous cohesive coatings which may be employed in the practice of this invention to releasably cohere the numerous elements of this invention to each other and especially the outer cover to the center member and the box cover to the box portion. The bond between the outer cover and the center member may be continuous or interrupted.

In embodiments where it is desired to reduce friction between the outer cover and/or the draw members and the sandwich halves, a sheet of material which superposes the outer cover may be placed between the outer cover, the draw member and the adjacent sandwich half.

In all embodiments, the outer cover can be constructed from a transparent material to allow the handler and/or consumer easily to view and select the desired item. Similarly, the outer container and/or the outer box can also be constructed from transparent material. Moreover, the inner container can be provided with a venting means so that the inner container can be vented if desired during heating.

The packaging and dispensing system of the present invention may be provided with any number of configurations and sizes. The size and configuration will typically be determined by the particular food product(s) contained within the inner container, the optional sandwich halves, the outer container, and the box means.

The materials used for the invention include, but are not limited to, papers, foils, cellophane, Mylar, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, foams, other types of polymers, or composites of these or other suitable materials. The primary requirements for the packaging materials are the ability to provide a sealable package and compatibility with food products. If desired, the materials should be compatible with optional sterilization techniques and methods employed. Additionally, the materials used for the package must, if required, be easily ripped or torn, and the line of tearing must propagate in a desired direction. In some instances, it might be desirable to add tear strips or other guiding devices/coatings on or in the packaging material to assist in a clean, linear tearing of the package material. It will also be desirable to use materials such as oriented fiber papers to assist in providing clean, linear edges in the packaging material to be torn.

If desired, the cavity can be flushed using any known means (as is known in the art) so as to reduce the oxygen content contained within the cavity and thus extend the life of the filler.

In various embodiments of the present invention, without limitation, to enable the user more easily to use the present invention, the first tab and the second tab (as well as the draw members and other elements) may be colored to contrast with the rest of the package, may be embossed to enhance user touch, feel, and sight, may be cut in a way to indicate direction, and may be numbered, embellished with arrows, or printed with directions to indicate proper use.

It is intended that the appended claims cover all such features and advantages of the invention that fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention. As numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the limited number of embodiments described herein. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that all suitable variations, modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention. 

1.-20. (canceled)
 21. Apparatus for packaging a sandwich filler, the apparatus comprising: an outer cover having a first and second ends and folded over itself so as to form a center cavity for the sandwich filler, wherein the first and second ends of said outer cover pull away from the fold to peel the outer cover back over itself and thereby expose the sandwich filler contained in the cavity. 